by Stephen Gent, Owner
McDade’s Nursery
Stephen has 14+ years of experience in horticulture as Publisher and Marketing Director for Nursery Management and Production, Greenhouse Management and Production and Garden Center magazine.
An avid gardener with a lifelong passion for plants, he enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with customers.
As the Texas summer takes hold and daytime temperatures stay in the 90’s or even 100’s, it’s important to monitor what’s happening in your garden. Here are some simple gardening practices that can maintain, preserve and keep your yard looking its very best.
Mulching is a low cost and easy way to make a huge difference in the summer landscape. A mulch covering of 1-2 inches helps reduce soil evaporation and keeps the soil moist for longer. The soil temperature stays several degrees cooler and keeps the roots system cooler and stronger.
A natural barrier is also created by mulching that prevents weeds from germinating. The thicker the mulch the better the weed control. Mulches like pine, hardwood, pecan, cedar or cypress adds color and texture to the garden providing a clean, neat and natural appearance. Cedar and cypress mulch are known to repel insects. The sharp shells of crushed pecans make it difficult for cats and other animals to walk on.
Correct watering at this time of year is critical. The natural tendency is to overwater your garden by watering everyday. It’s best to water 2-3 times per week for longer durations. This allows the soil to dry out and aerate forcing the root systems deeper, creating a stronger and more vigorous plant. The exception to this rule is hanging baskets that can dry out quickly in the heat and wind. Watering later in the day allows fungi to develop overnight. Early morning watering is always recommended.
Remember to move the cutting height of your lawn mower up a notch or two. Having a taller, thicker lawn will require less watering and will keep the grass looking greener. You also don’t have to mow as often!
The grasshopper population is reported to be extremely high this year and causing widespread damage. There are several solutions to reducing their devastating effects. One organic biological insecticide called Nolo Bait that has proven successful in controlling these pests. Nolo Bait is formulated to only kill grasshoppers, safeguarding other beneficial insects like bees and lady bugs. Being organic, it’s also friendly to pets, children and the environment. Ask your local garden center or nursery if they carry it.
Your garden doesn’t have to look bare during the summer. There are plenty of colorful plants that can withstand the Texas heat. Purslane, Spanish Moss, vinca (periwinkle), pentas, portulaca and zinnia will take the full sun. In shady areas try ferns, green leaf begonias, impatiens, nicotiana, hostas and caladiums to provide an interesting mix of color and greenery.
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