How to Keep Your Lawn Healthy While You’re Away on Holiday

December is holiday season — and while you’re packing for the coast or the bush, your lawn shouldn’t be left to suffer in the summer heat. One of the most common questions homeowners ask this time of year is: “How can I keep my grass alive while I’m away?”

Here’s how to make sure your Kikuyu or LM grass stays green and healthy, even when you’re not home to water or mow.

1. Give Your Lawn a Pre-Holiday Boost

Before heading off, feed your lawn with a layer of compost or a slow-release fertiliser. This helps strengthen the roots and retain moisture while you’re away.

Quick Lawn’s Special Compost Mix is perfect for this — it releases nutrients gradually, so your grass continues to feed naturally over the holiday period.

2. Water Deeply Before You Leave

A thorough soaking a few days before you go ensures the soil is well-hydrated. Focus on deep watering, allowing moisture to reach at least 15 cm below the surface. 

This trains your grass roots to grow deeper, helping them handle the heat better.

3. Set Up an Irrigation Timer

If you have an irrigation system, install a timer or smart controller to water automatically while you’re away. The best times to water are early morning or late evening, when evaporation is lowest.

If you don’t have irrigation, ask a neighbour or friend to water every 3–4 days during peak heat.

4. Mow Before You Go — But Not Too Short

A common mistake is cutting grass too short before going on holiday.

• For Kikuyu, keep it around 4–5 cm high.

• For LM grass, leave it slightly longer at 5–6 cm.

Longer blades shade the soil and reduce water loss — crucial during hot, dry weeks.

5. Weed and Edge Beforehand

Remove weeds and edge your lawn before you leave. This keeps things tidy and prevents weeds from spreading while you’re away.

Quick Tip:

If you’re going away for more than two weeks, mulching (leaving short grass clippings on the surface after mowing) helps the soil retain moisture and provides a light nutrient layer.

Coming Home to a Green Lawn

When you return, give your lawn a light watering and mowing session to bring it back to its regular routine. With a bit of pre-holiday care, your Kikuyu or LM grass will stay lush and healthy — ready to welcome you home.