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When summer temperatures soar, maintaining a lush lawn and vibrant garden can often feel like a losing battle. But with a few strategic adjustments, you can keep your yard thriving while using water more efficiently. Whether you’re facing drought conditions or just trying to reduce your utility bill, watering smarter, not more, is the key to success.
Here are some essential tips to keep your lawn and garden healthy this summer:
Time Your Watering Right
The best time to water is early in the morning, ideally between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. 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.
Understand That Deep and Infrequent Wins the Race
Rather than watering daily, aim to water deeply a few times a week. Deep watering encourages roots to grow down into the soil, making plants more drought-resistant. For lawns, aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Use a rain gauge or an empty tuna can to measure the amount of water your sprinkler system is delivering.
Make Mulch Your Best Friend
Mulching your garden beds helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch — such as shredded bark, wood chips, or straw — around flowers, vegetables, and shrubs. You want to avoid piling mulch directly against stems or tree trunks, as this can lead to rot.
Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants
In hot weather, not all plants are created equal. If you’re planning new landscaping or looking to replace struggling greenery, consider drought-tolerant options like lavender, yarrow, salvia, ornamental grasses, and succulents. Native plants are also a great choice, as they’ve adapted to your region’s climate and typically require less water and care.
Use Smart Irrigation Tools
Modern irrigation technology can take the guesswork out of watering. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing waste. Smart controllers and soil moisture sensors can automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather and soil conditions. These tools can lead to significant water savings and healthier plants.
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.
Efficient watering isn’t just good for your garden — it’s good for the environment and your wallet. By adjusting your habits to accommodate hot weather conditions, you can conserve resources and still enjoy a beautiful outdoor space throughout the summer. Small changes, such as adjusting your watering schedule and using mulch, can make a significant difference in how your lawn and garden perform during the heat.
