5 Steps to Revive Your Lawn During Drought

Drought can leave your lawn dry, patchy, and dull. In Auckland, where weather patterns can quickly shift from heavy rain to long dry spells, keeping your lawn green and healthy becomes a real challenge. But don’t worry—your lawn can bounce back with the right care.

Here are five effective steps to revive your lawn during a drought and keep it thriving year-round.
 

1. Water Deeply, Not Frequently
 

When water is scarce, every drop matters. Instead of watering your lawn daily, focus on deep, infrequent watering. This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, helping your grass become stronger and more drought-tolerant over time.

Tip for Auckland lawns: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation. Aim for around 25mm of water once or twice a week, depending on council restrictions.
 

2. Mow High and Often
 

Many homeowners mow too short during dry weather. Short grass exposes more soil, increases evaporation, and stresses the lawn. Raise your mower blades and keep the grass longer.

Mowing tips:

• Don’t cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time.
   
• Leave the clippings on the lawn—they act as natural mulch and help retain moisture.
   

A smart lawn mowing routine keeps the lawn shaded and improves soil moisture, which is key during drought.
 

3. Use Drought-Resistant Grass Varieties
 

If parts of your lawn have died completely, consider overseeding with drought-resistant grasses. These are more suitable for Auckland’s climate and need less water to stay green.

Popular drought-resistant grasses in Auckland:

• Fine fescue
   
• Tall fescue
   
• Couch grass
   

At Lawn Masters, we help you pick the right mix based on your soil type and sun exposure.
 

4. Aerate Your Lawn
 

Compacted soil can block water from reaching grass roots. Lawn aeration helps water, air, and nutrients reach deeper layers of the soil—supporting better root growth.

You can use a manual aerator or book a professional gardening service. The best times to aerate are early spring or autumn, but even in summer, it helps if done carefully.
 

5. Apply a Wetting Agent or Organic Mulch
 

During drought, soil can become hydrophobic—it repels water instead of soaking it in. A wetting agent solves this by letting water penetrate dry soil effectively.

For added protection:

• Use light organic mulch like compost or fine bark around garden beds.
   
• Choose organic fertilisers to feed your lawn slowly and avoid burning dry grass.
   

At Lawn Masters, we provide eco-friendly treatments and advice to support lawns during tough conditions.
 

Bonus Tip: Reduce Foot Traffic
 

Your lawn is already stressed in dry weather. Too much foot traffic can compact the soil and damage the grass. Try to keep kids, pets, and heavy tools off the lawn while it’s recovering.
 

How Lawn Masters Can Help
 

We understand how Auckland’s changing weather affects lawns. From expert mowing to tailored treatments, Lawn Masters is ready to help bring your lawn back to life.

Our drought recovery services include:

• Lawn health checks
   
• Smart watering plans
   
• Aeration and topdressing
   
• Overseeding with drought-tolerant grass
   
• Organic lawn care treatments
   

Let our experienced team handle the hard work while you enjoy a lush, green lawn again.
 

Complete Lawn & Garden Care in Auckland
 

Beyond lawn care, your outdoor space also needs reliable maintenance. Garden Experts provide section clearing, planting, and gardening service options that work well with your lawn’s recovery.

For regular lawn mowing, hedge trimming, and tidy-up jobs, Quick Cuts is your trusted choice for fast, professional service that keeps your garden looking sharp all year round.
 

FAQs: Lawn Care During Drought in Auckland
 

Q1. How often should I water my lawn during a drought?
Water once or twice a week with about 25mm each time. Early morning watering is best to reduce evaporation.
 

Q2. Can I still mow my lawn in a drought?
Yes, but raise your mower blade. Mow less often and leave the clippings on the lawn to help keep moisture in the soil.
 

Q3. Is using a wetting agent helpful?
Yes. It helps dry soil absorb water better, making your watering more effective.
 

Q4. Should I fertilise my lawn during a drought?
Use only organic or slow-release fertilisers. Avoid chemical fertilisers—they may burn the dry grass.

 

Q5. How long will it take for my lawn to recover?
With proper care, you may see results in 2–4 weeks. Full recovery might take longer, depending on the damage.
 

Conclusion
 

A drought doesn’t mean your lawn is gone for good. With smart watering, raised mowing, and the right support, your grass can bounce back stronger. For professional lawn mowing, gardening service, and drought recovery across Auckland, Lawn Masters is here to help.

Let’s bring the green back to your garden—call us today or request a free quote.