7 Tips for Maintaining Your Lawn and Garden During the Summer

In the heat of summer, your lawn needs extra attention to promote the health of your plants and grass. With the right approach, you can make sure that your outdoor area remains lush and green. The following seven tips are some of the recommendations that landscapers provide their clients for managing their lawn and garden during summer:

Watering for Optimal Growth

Intense heat may cause the soil to dry out quickly, causing plants to wilt. It is helpful to water plants deep and infrequently rather than lightly and frequently. This watering technique encourages roots to penetrate deeper into the soil, making them more resistant to dry weather. Water in the early morning or in the evening so the water doesn’t evaporate quickly. This helps the plants to use the water properly. Landscapers may use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water the plants at the roots, providing even coverage and avoiding water waste.

Mowing Techniques for a Healthy Lawn

Keep your mower blades sharp to provide clean cuts. This will help minimize disease and promote healthy grass growth. Adjust your mowing frequency based on your grass type, aiming to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow. Maintaining taller grass helps retain moisture and suppress weed growth by covering the ground effectively. Varying your mowing pattern regularly prevents soil compaction and encourages uniform growth throughout your lawn.

Fertilizing for Better Nutrient Availability

Fertilization supplies nutrients that help with healthy plant growth. Choose a slow-release fertilizer that nourishes plants gradually without causing them to burn from excessive nutrients in a single application. Assess the specific nutrient needs of your plants and grass types, as these requirements can vary. Organic materials such as compost or manure offer nutrients and improve soil quality. Apply fertilizer during the cooler parts of the day, such as morning or evening, to minimize evaporation and provide effective nutrient absorption by the plants.

Mulching to Retain Moisture

Organic mulching is a practice that helps conserve soil moisture, prevent weed growth, and enhance the garden. Organic mulches include wood chips, straw, and compost. They assist in maintaining the soil temperature and minimize water evaporation.

These mulches decompose with time, adding organic matter to the soil. Place a layer of mulch around the plants that isn’t thick enough to suffocate the roots. Mulching around the shrubs and trees can protect them from mower damage and minimize competition from weeds. 

Pruning to Improve Air Flow

Pruning plants and removing dead or damaged branches enhances air circulation and reduces disease risk. This practice not only shapes plants but stimulates the growth of new branches and buds. Use clean, sharp tools when pruning to minimize plant damage. For flowering plants, regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous blooming throughout the summer season.

Pest and Disease Management

Heat may attract pests and diseases that threaten the health of your lawn and garden. Routinely inspect your plants for symptoms such as color changes, holes, or wilting. Early detection can mitigate potential damage.

Introducing certain insects, such as ladybugs and predatory beetles, can assist in natural pest control strategies. Organic or chemical treatments may effectively manage pests when instructions are carefully followed to avoid harming beneficial insects or the environment.

Soil Aeration for Enhanced Soil Conditions

Over time, soil can become compacted, restricting the flow of air, water, and nutrients to grass roots. Aeration involves creating small holes in the ground to alleviate compaction and promote deeper root penetration. This process facilitates improved soil infiltration by water and nutrients, enhancing overall lawn quality. Aeration is most beneficial during the growing season when grass can recover and fill in bare spots effectively.

Hire Certified Landscapers

As you navigate summer maintenance for your lawn and garden, remember that proactive care pays off. Consistent attention to watering, mowing, fertilizing, pruning, pest control, aeration, and selecting experienced landscapers will make sure your outdoor spaces thrive in the heat. By following these tips, you can enjoy a vibrant and healthy landscape throughout the summer months and beyond.