 Are you sabotaging it with your mowing habits? Here are some adjustments that will give your turf a fighting chance during long dry spells. First, raise your mower deck and only trim a little at a time. It helps grass direct energy to growing roots rather than regrowing the blades. Longer blades also shade the soil and discourage weeds. Secondly, mow in the early evening when possible. The grass will be dry and it will have some time to recover before the next hot afternoon. And finally, vary your mowing pattern.