Summer Care For Your Landscape and Garden

As August rolls in, the height of summer is upon us, and for gardeners and landscape enthusiasts, this marks a crucial period for maintaining the health and beauty of our beloved outdoor spaces. Here in central NC we’ve had several days of triple digit temperatures, and with only the occasional summer storm rolling through, our landscapes need extra TLC to continue thriving!  Here’s what you can do to ensure your landscape and garden flourish during this late summer month.

Water Wisely: August heat can be intense, leading to increased water needs for plants. Deep, infrequent watering is key to developing strong roots. You may need to increase watering time to ensure you are watering deeply. Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the roots. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and avoid wet foliage overnight, which can invite disease and fungus.

Monitor Plant Health: Regularly inspect plants for signs of stress, pests, or diseases. August heat can exacerbate issues such as powdery mildew, spider mites, scale, and aphids. Insects love hot, dry weather and stressed plants! Address any issues promptly with organic solutions (such as soapy water, duct tape, horticultural oil, marigolds, etc) or integrated pest management techniques (such as introducing beneficial insects) to prevent them from spreading to healthy plants.

Prune and Deadhead: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and remove any diseased or damaged foliage. Pruning shrubs and trees should be done selectively to maintain shape and remove crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning during hot weather, as it can stress plants further.

Fertilize Appropriately: Evaluate your garden’s nutrient needs and apply fertilizers accordingly. Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization late in the season, as it can promote new growth susceptible to frost damage in the fall. Instead, opt for balanced fertilizers or those specifically formulated for late summer use.

Weed Control: Weeds compete with desirable plants for water and nutrients, so stay vigilant with weed removal. Pull weeds before they set seed to prevent future growth. Mulching around plants helps suppress weeds and conserves soil moisture, but don’t over mulch, or you will create the perfect habitat for voles…1 to 2 inches is plenty! Pull mulch back from the stem of the plants to prevent rot and decay.  

Protect from Heat and Sun: If you see signs of sun scorch, provide shade for heat-sensitive plants during the hottest parts of the day. Use shade cloth, plant taller species nearby for natural shading, or consider temporary structures to shield vulnerable plants from intense sunlight.

Harvest Regularly: Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor by harvesting crops as they mature. Regular harvesting not only ensures peak flavor but also encourages continued production. Check plants daily for ripe produce, and harvest early in the morning when temperatures are cooler.

Plan Ahead for Fall: August is an ideal time to start planning for your fall garden. Begin sowing seeds indoors for cool-season crops like broccoli, cabbage, and kale. Prepare beds by removing spent plants, adding compost, and planning crop rotations to improve soil health.

Lawn Care: Raise the cutting height of your lawnmower to reduce stress on grass during hot weather. Sharpen your mower blades to ensure a cleaner cut. Hot, humid weather leads to the growth of fungus in your turf. Sharp blades and bagging your grass clippings help reduce the spread of fungus. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Consider aerating if soil compaction is an issue, and patch bare spots with seed or sod.

Enjoy Your Outdoor Oasis: Lastly, take time to relax and appreciate your garden oasis. August evenings are perfect for outdoor gatherings, so ensure your seating areas are comfortable and inviting. Consider adding solar lighting or candles to extend your enjoyment into the night.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your landscape and garden remain healthy and vibrant throughout August, so you can savor these last days of summer! With careful attention and proactive care, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful outdoor space that continues to flourish as the seasons change.