Summer in East Texas doesn’t ease in — it arrives. By early June, most of the Lufkin and Nacogdoches area is regularly seeing temperatures in the 90s, and lawns that weren’t prepared in May often spend the rest of the season just trying to survive.

The good news: summer lawn damage is largely preventable. The key is doing the work now, while conditions are still forgiving.

Why May Is the Critical Month

In May, grass is still actively growing, soil retains moisture well, and temperatures haven’t yet stressed turf to its limits. This is the ideal window to strengthen roots, correct problems, and build resilience before real heat sets in.

Waiting until June or July to address issues usually means treating symptoms rather than causes — and costing more in the process.

Steps That Make the Biggest Difference

Strengthen Root Systems

Deep, infrequent watering is the single most effective habit for preparing a lawn for summer. Roots grow toward moisture, so shallow watering creates shallow roots — and shallow roots can’t survive East Texas heat.

Mow Higher, Mow Smarter

Taller grass blades shade the soil, slow evaporation, and outcompete weeds. For Bermuda, that often means adjusting to around 2 inches heading into summer; for St. Augustine, closer to 3.5 to 4 inches. Sharp blades matter, too — torn grass loses moisture faster than cleanly cut grass.

Fertilize With the Season in Mind

A balanced late-spring feeding supports steady growth. Heavy nitrogen applications right before summer often backfire, producing lush top growth that can’t be sustained once heat arrives.

Tackle Weeds While They’re Young

Crabgrass, dallisgrass, and summer annual weeds are already active. Pulling or treating them in May, when they’re small, is far easier and more effective than fighting mature weeds in 95-degree weather.

Inspect and Adjust Irrigation

Walk your yard with the irrigation running. Look for dry spots, overspray onto pavement, and clogged heads. Small fixes now save a lot of water — and a lot of lawn — later.

Protect Flowerbeds Too

Bare beds bake in East Texas summers. A fresh 2-3 inch layer of mulch dramatically reduces watering needs, keeps roots cooler, and suppresses weeds. It also improves the overall look of the property.

The Bottom Line

Summer doesn’t have to mean brown grass, struggling plants, and constant repairs. Lawns and landscapes that are prepared in May typically stay healthier, look better, and cost less to maintain all summer long.

If you want your property to thrive through another East Texas summer, now is the time to put a plan in place.

A1 Lawn & Landscape proudly serves Lufkin, Nacogdoches, and surrounding East Texas communities.

📞 Call 936-635-0555 for a free estimate.

Rooted in Faith. Growing in Service.

Author: Billy Forrest