Maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn and landscape during Central Florida’s summer months can be challenging. With soaring temperatures, increased humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms, it’s essential to adapt your lawn care practices to keep your outdoor spaces looking their best. Here are some tips, tricks, and suggestions tailored for June and July.
Lawn Care Tips:
Mowing Schedule
Grass growth speeds up in summer due to rain and warm temperatures. Mow weekly, keeping your mower blades sharp to avoid damaging grass.
For St. Augustine and Bahia grasses, maintain a height of 3.5–4 inches to protect roots from heat stress.
Watering Wisely
Water early in the morning (before 10 AM) to reduce evaporation.
Ensure your lawn gets 1–1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Use a rain gauge to avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal issues.
Fertilizing Smartly
Fertilize only if your lawn is actively growing. Choose a slow-release fertilizer and avoid applying before heavy rain.
Follow Florida’s fertilizer restrictions—June 1 to September 30 is the “restricted season” for nitrogen and phosphorus applications in many areas.
Pest Control
Watch for chinch bugs, sod webworms, and other pests common in Florida. Use targeted treatments to prevent infestations.
Shrub Maintenance Tips
Trimming & Pruning
Trim shrubs lightly to maintain their shape but avoid heavy pruning, which can stress plants during peak heat.
Remove dead or diseased branches to improve air circulation.
Mulching Matters
Add a fresh layer of mulch around shrubs to conserve moisture and reduce soil temperature. Keep mulch 2–3 inches thick and avoid piling it against the plant stems.
Plant Bed Maintenance
Weeding Strategy
Frequent weeding is crucial during summer due to rapid weed growth. Use organic pre-emergent weed control like PREEN Garden to prevent new weeds from sprouting.
Hand-pull established weeds after rain when the soil is soft.
Seasonal Plant Care
Replace spent annuals with heat-tolerant varieties such as vincas, zinnias, or pentas.
Monitor perennials for signs of heat stress and provide shade cloth if necessary.
Soil Health
Use compost or organic matter to enrich plant beds and improve soil structure, which helps retain moisture during dry spells.
General Suggestions for Central Florida Residents
Inspect Irrigation Systems: Ensure sprinklers are functioning correctly and not wasting water.
Storm Prep: Secure loose outdoor items to prevent damage during sudden storms.
Embrace Native Plants: Incorporate Florida-friendly plants to reduce maintenance and water usage.
By following these tips, you’ll keep your lawn and landscape thriving even in the sweltering summer months. Need professional help?
Contact us for expert lawn care, shrub maintenance, and plant bed upkeep tailored to your needs in Central Florida.
