The recent sizzling summer weather has not only taxed the electric grid but also stressed and browned lawns across the country. You'll know your grass is losing resilience and suffering from drought if you leave behind persistent footprints when you take a walk around your lawn.

Unless your property features a water-wise landscape or a heat-resistant or heat-tolerant grass (check our interactive guide to find the right grass for your home) you'll need to help your lawn get through these early dog days of summer. Here's what to do:

• Raise your mower deck height at least one setting. Taller grass shoots provide better shade for the soil beneath, require less water, and have longer roots that can absorb more water deeper in the ground. Also limit mowing as much as possible to reduce the stress to the grass caused by the cutting. If you're in the market for a new mower or tractor, use our free buyer's guide and refer to ratings of lawn mowers and lawn tractors and riding mowers (available to subscribers).

• Water in the early morning. There's typically less wind to blow the water and less sunlight to evaporate it. Use our detailed watering information, including specifics on how much and how often to water.