MSU Extension Drought Resources

Home & Yard

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  Equip yourself for dry weather: Tools and techniques to soften the slap of drought in your garden

  Published on June 26, 2023
  To minimize the impact of drought in your landscape and garden, it is crucial to employ the right tools and techniques. Planning ahead and implementing simple practices can soften the blow of drought and help your garden thrive.

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  Drought conditions begin to impact Michigan landscapes

  Published on June 21, 2023
  Watch for common signs of drought stress on landscape plants.

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  How much water does your lawn irrigation system apply?

  Published on July 8, 2020
  As dry conditions persist, knowing how much water your irrigation system applies is critical for maintaining healthy turf.

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  Lawn irrigation tips

  Published on July 8, 2020
  Light, frequent irrigation during this hot, dry weather will help your lawn survive and thrive.

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  Helping your turf during dry and hot weather

  Published on July 7, 2020
  Throughout much of Michigan, lawns are under stress from high temperatures and lack of rainfall.

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  Healthy lawns are more resilient to grubs, drought and other stressors

  Published on May 24, 2017
  Use these Smart Gardening practices to have a healthy lawn that is more resilient to potential turf problems.

• Water conservation will offset summer drought costs

  Published on August 10, 2016
  Temperatures are not the only thing high during this hot and dry summer. Water bills are skyrocketing as homeowners try to maintain their outdoor plants and lawns.

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  Keep garden soils moist during a drought

  Published on June 30, 2016
  Prevent drought stress in your garden and landscape by checking soil moisture.

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  Grub damage to lawns is being reported now in drought-stricken parts of Michigan

  Published on November 2, 2015
  White grub damage is being reported now because drought conditions in some areas have weakened and thinned turf root systems, making lawns much more susceptible to grub-feeding injury. Insecticide treatments may or may not be effective at this time.

• Late season lawn seeding

  Published on September 24, 2012
  Lawns may have taken a beating from the summer drought, but it’s not too late for a little first aid for the grass blades.

• Fall lawn care tips from MSU turfgrass expert Kevin Frank

  Published on September 19, 2012 by MLive.com
  

• Turfgrass establishment following a hot, dry summer

  Published on August 22, 2012
  Following the summer of 2012, many turfgrass areas and lawns may need to be over-seeded to fill in damaged or dead areas.

• What is evapotranspiration and why it matters

  Published on July 25, 2012
  Under drought conditions, plants may not be able to extract water fast enough to keep up with evapotranspiration.

• Does a dormant lawn need to be treated for grubs?

  Published on July 12, 2012
  Home lawns are the most susceptible to grub damage under dry conditions. If you have seen turf damage caused by grubs in the last two years, plan on applying an insecticide for grubs before August 1.

• Tough time for trees: Heat, drought, and storms take their toll

  Published on July 9, 2012
  Our record-breaking heat wave coupled with widespread severe thunderstorms made this a rough week for trees in Lower Michigan and surrounding areas.