How to Prepare Your Lawn Before Going on Vacation?

If your lawn is in good condition before you leave and it will only be unattended for a few days, you shouldn’t run into major problems. But if you’re planning to be away for a longer period, it’s best to ask a neighbor or friend to keep an eye on it.

Tips for Preparing Your Lawn Before Vacation

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Look at both short- and long-term weather forecasts (ideally 10 days ahead). Even though long-term forecasts can be inaccurate, they still give you a general idea of what to expect—whether it’ll be a heatwave or if a cold front with rain is on the way. Use that info to plan accordingly.
 

2. Adjust Your Watering Schedule

Make sure your irrigation system is working properly. Check that all sprinkler heads are aimed correctly and cover the entire lawn. If some sprinklers are overgrown, use a sprinkler trimmer to clear them. If you have a rain sensor, ensure it's functioning properly to prevent flooding during heavy rain.

I have an automatic irrigation system:

If the weather looks average with occasional showers, you can keep your regular watering schedule.

If a heatwave is expected, pay extra attention. Program deep watering in the early morning with at least 15–20 liters per square meter, three times a week. This will encourage deep root growth. During very hot weather, it’s also good to cool the lawn daily or every other day with a short mid-day sprinkle (even 1 minute can help). This helps keep the lawn green even in extreme heat.

 

I don’t have an irrigation system:

 If normal weather is expected, no major action is needed.

Before leaving, give your lawn a deep watering. If high temps are in the forecast, water it twice: once 3 days before leaving and again right before you go. This helps soak the soil to a depth of 15–20 cm so roots can absorb moisture.

 

3. Don’t Forget to Mow

Whatever mower you use, make sure the blades are sharpened and the machine is well-adjusted. Dull blades can damage the lawn, especially during hot days. Clean cuts help the lawn recover faster, reduce moisture loss, and prevent fungal diseases.

If you’re going away for a longer time, try to arrange for someone to mow the lawn at your usual frequency. If no family member or friendly neighbor is available, you could hire a student or local helper. If that’s not an option, mow the lawn to a “manageable length” before leaving—don’t scalp it. You can even mow twice within two days, but always follow the one-third rule (cut no more than 1/3 of the blade height).

 

After you return, resume mowing gently—again only 1/3 of the height—even if the lawn has overgrown. Cutting too much at once can stress the grass, slow down its recovery, and invite disease. If you use a Swardman reel mower, you can install the high grass wheels to make the job easier.

One last thing. If someone will mow for you and high temperatures are expected, ask them to mow in the morning or before noon, when the grass is still firm. During heatwaves, the lawn wilts by midday, and mowing it in the evening can cause more harm than good—the mower may end up “chewing” rather than cutting the blades. And that’s the last thing you want for your lawn...