When summer heat hits its peak, keeping your lawn lush and your garden vibrant can sometimes feel overwhelming. But with a few smart watering strategies, you can help your yard flourish while conserving water and saving on your utility bills. Whether you're dealing with dry spells or simply want to be more efficient, the secret is watering smarter—not harder. Here are some essential tips to help your lawn and garden stay healthy all summer long!
Time Your Watering Right
The best time to water is early in the morning, ideally before 10am. At this time, temperatures are lower, and wind is usually calm, allowing water to soak into the soil instead of evaporating. Evening watering is a second-best option, but it increases the risk of fungal diseases since plants stay wet overnight. The most important thing is to avoid watering during the heat of the day, when as much as 50% of water can be lost to evaporation.
Water Deeply and Infrequently
Instead of frequent shallow watering, aim for deeper, less frequent sessions. Deep watering encourages roots to grow stronger and deeper, making plants more resilient to heat and drought. For lawns, aim to water about 1 to 1.5 inches per week, split over two watering times.
Use Mulch to Retain Moisture
Adding a layer of organic mulch—like wood chips or shredded bark—around your plants helps lock in moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching is especially helpful in flower beds, vegetable gardens, and around shrubs and trees.
Check and Maintain Your Irrigation System
Regularly inspect your sprinklers or drip systems for leaks, broken heads, or clogged nozzles. Make sure water is reaching your plants and not spraying sidewalks or driveways. Adjust sprinkler heads and timers as needed to optimize watering efficiency.
Don't Forget the Lawn
Grass can go dormant in extreme heat and bounce back when conditions improve, but you can help it stay greener longer by mowing at a higher setting, approximately 3 inches. Taller blades shade the soil, reducing evaporation and protecting roots. Additionally, sharpen your mower blades to prevent tearing, as this makes grass more susceptible to heat and disease.
Smart watering is all about balance—giving your lawn and garden enough water to thrive without waste. By adopting these strategies, you’ll help your outdoor spaces stay healthy and vibrant all summer while using water responsibly and efficiently. If you want more tips on caring for your home and yard, feel free to reach out—our team is always here to help you make the most of your space!
