How to Keep Your Lawn Green in Spokane’s July Heat

How to Keep Your Lawn Green in Spokane’s July Heat

July has me sitting on the deck, iced drink in hand, watching my kids run through the forest. No matter how beautiful the scene, my eyes go straight to the brown spots in the grass.

Spokane summers are beautiful, warm evenings, long sunny days, and perfect backyard weather. But if you’re a busy family like mine, you know that keeping the lawn green in the middle of July heat isn’t always easy. Between soccer practice, summer BBQs, and maybe a camping trip or two, lawn care can feel like just another thing on the to-do list.

The good news? With a few simple Spokane lawn care tips, you can have a healthy, green yard without spending all summer working on it. Whether you’re thinking about selling soon or just want a yard your kids can run barefoot in, here’s how to keep your lawn thriving in the Inland Northwest heat.

1. Water Smart (Not Constantly)

It’s tempting to water every day when things look dry, but watering deeply and less often is key. Aim for about 1–1.5 inches of water per week. Water early in the morning—between 5 and 9 AM—to give the roots a good soak before the sun gets too hot. Skip watering at night to avoid fungus problems.

Pro Tip: Spokane sometimes has summer water restrictions, so double-check your local guidelines.

2. Mow High and Keep It Healthy

Short grass might look tidy, but in July heat, it can dry out fast. Keep your mower blade set around 3 inches to shade the soil and hold moisture. Taller grass = fewer weeds and a greener lawn.

3. Sharp Blades Make All the Difference

A dull mower blade tears your grass, leaving those dry, brown tips nobody wants to see. Sharpen your blade at least once a season for a clean cut and healthier lawn.

4. Feed Your Lawn the Right Way

Don’t forget about fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer in early July to strengthen your grass without overwhelming it. Skip heavy feedings during the hottest days—they can stress your lawn even more.

5. Protect Your High-Traffic Areas

Summer means backyard fun, but all those games, pets, and parties can damage your grass. Rotate where you set up play areas or add stepping stones to keep those worn spots looking fresh.

Bonus Tip: Think Long-Term with Drought-Tolerant Landscaping

If you’re tired of fighting the summer heat every year, consider adding drought-tolerant plants or xeriscaping. It’s eco-friendly, low maintenance, and a huge plus for future buyers.

Why It Matters

As a Spokane real estate agent who works with families every day, I can tell you this: curb appeal matters. A lush, green lawn doesn’t just make you smile when you pull into the driveway—it can increase your home’s value by up to 7%. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want to enjoy your outdoor space, these tips will help you get there.