As the summer months begin to wind down, the hot and humid climate of Central Florida continues to challenge lawns, turf, shrubs, and plant beds. August and September bring unique opportunities and challenges for maintaining a healthy and vibrant landscape. Here are some expert tips, tricks, and suggestions to keep your outdoor spaces thriving during these months.
1. Lawn Care Tips
Mowing Height:
Keep your grass longer during the hot months. For St. Augustine grass, set your mower blade to 4 to 4.5 inches. Taller grass helps shade the soil, retain moisture, and prevent weed growth.
Watering Schedule:
Water early in the morning, ideally between 4 AM and 8 AM, to reduce evaporation and fungal risks.
Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Adjust based on weather conditions.
Fertilization:
Use slow-release fertilizers to provide consistent nutrients without burning the lawn. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can stress the grass in extreme heat.
In September, consider applying a pre-emergent herbicide to prepare for fall weed prevention.
Pest Control:
Monitor for chinch bugs and sod webworms, which thrive in the summer heat. Treat infestations promptly with the appropriate pest control methods.
2. Shrub Maintenance
Trimming and Pruning:
Lightly trim shrubs to maintain their shape, but avoid heavy pruning in the heat as it can stress the plants.
Remove dead or diseased branches to improve airflow and reduce the risk of pests or diseases.
Mulching:
Add a fresh layer of mulch around shrubs to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch about 2–3 inches deep and away from the base of the shrubs to prevent rot.
Watering:
Shrubs benefit from deep, infrequent watering. Water at the base to avoid fungal issues on leaves.
3. Plant Bed Care
Weed Control:
Hand-pull weeds after rain when the soil is softer. For preventative care, use organic solutions like PREEN Garden Weed Preventer.
Edge plant beds regularly to create clean borders and reduce weed encroachment.
Soil Care:
Add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and improve plant health. This is especially beneficial in sandy Central Florida soils.
Seasonal Planting:
Replace struggling summer annuals with heat-tolerant plants like vincas or lantanas. Prepare plant beds for fall blooms with mums or ornamental grasses in late September.
4. General Tips for Central Florida’s Hot Climate
Irrigation System Check:
Inspect and adjust your irrigation system to ensure even coverage. Replace broken or clogged sprinkler heads.
Monitor for Fungal Diseases:
High humidity in August and September can lead to fungal diseases. Brown patch and dollar spot are common in lawns. Use fungicides if necessary and avoid overwatering.
Shade Management:
For areas under trees, ensure adequate light reaches the grass by trimming tree canopies. Shade-tolerant grass varieties like Zoysia may thrive better in low-light conditions.
Hurricane Prep:
August and September fall in peak hurricane season. Secure loose items in your landscape and trim weak branches to prevent storm damage.
Key Takeaways
Maintaining a lush lawn and vibrant landscape during Central Florida’s August and September heat requires attention to detail and proper timing. By adjusting your watering, fertilization, and care routines to suit the climate, you can protect your outdoor spaces and keep them looking their best.
Need professional help with lawn care, shrub maintenance, or plant bed upkeep? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us handle the hard work for you!
