Seasonal high temperatures cause significant water loss through evaporation and transpiration from plants. Reserves of soil moisture are at their lowest, causing desiccation of roots and a decrease in soil organism reproduction.
Plant a fall cover crop or apply a thick layer (2-3 inches) of medium to coarse wood mulch to cover all bare ground, and extend the duration of irrigation to maintain moisture deep in the soil profile. Finally, adjust mowers to cut grass at 3 inches or higher.
