The DO NOT List of Summer: Landscape No's from the Pros

The weather is nice, the sun is shining, the landscape is thriving, but this time of year comes with a very important list of do nots. Following this list is crucial to the survival of your landscape beds and yard. Following this simple list is crucial to the survival of your plants.

As the sun shines your plants grow and if the weather has been just right, they thrive! We have all sat there and said, "wow those flowers are getting out of control, I'll prune them," "oh the grass is growing so fast, I'll cut it shorter," but trust us, these are the worst things you can do! Listen to the pros and follow these mid-summer rules.

Do Not Prune

Pruning during the summer months may seem like a good idea and sometimes may be necessary to clear a path when things grow over the walkways. Lighter prunes are best, so stay proactive throughout the season to keep things tidy. Larger cuts during the summer are more stressful for the plants, weakening them and making them more vulnerable to pests and disease.

Do Not Plant

The plant sales at the local nurseries are so enticing, but it may be a waste of money. During the summer months the weather tends to be too hot and dry for new plants to establish well leaving them to just wilt and die. Do yourself and wallet a favor and plant during the spring or fall months.

Do Not Transplant or Divide

"That would look better over there." We've all thought this as plants grow and get a bit too large for their original locations. As this may be true and you may have a better location the best thing to do is wait until fall or spring when the weather is cooler and they have time to grow deeper roots before the freeze of winter or the extreme heat of summer.

Do Not Water During the Day

The best time to water during the summer is in the morning hours before the heat of the day sets in. Watering during the day is a waste time and money as the water is quickly evaporated doing nothing for your plants. It's also best to water deep and less frequent as this promotes healthier, deeper, and stronger roots.

Do Not Mow Too Short

Mowing too short is a death sentence for your lawn. Taller grass provides shade to the soil allowing the roots to hold the moisture they need during the dry season and keeps them cooler during the heat.

Summer is so tempting with its sales, beautiful weather, thriving plants, and variety of colors. Dangerously wanting you to waste your money but heed our warning. Summertime is not the time for drastic changes or additions to your landscape; this is the time to let it be and only help it if it truly needs. Following these simple rules will pay off in the long run, but should you ever have any questions reach out to your local pro before doing anything drastic. We are here to help you make those wise decisions keeping your lawn and garden in the peak of all its glory!