Top 5 Summer Gardening Tips

1. Go native. Native plants will already be acclimated to your region’s climate and soil conditions and will also have a natural resistance to local insect pests. You won’t have to baby them along nearly as much as their hybrid counterparts, and because they don’t require extra watering except during periods of drought, you’ll save substantially on your water bill.

2. If you want to keep that soft, velvety expanse of lawn the same fresh green color that it is now, the most important thing that you can do is to not cut it too short. Set your mower for at least two inches high. Cutting your grass any shorter may interfere with the natural process of photosynthesis and cause it to become ragged and brown.

3. Use lots of mulch. Mulch keeps plant roots cool in summer and protects them from freezing temperatures in winter. An organic mulch will also provide your plants with nutrients. Decorative mulches such as colored stones will add fabulous accents to your outdoor living space.

4. Keep home safety in mind when deciding on gardening projects. Heavy foliage next to doorways and windows might be used as cover by potential home intruders, so choose other planting sites for these plants. If you live in an area where seasonal fires are likely, ask your local nursery to provide you with suggestions concerning fire-resistant shrubs, trees, and herbaceous perennials.

5. Try not to let gardening be just a weekend activity. Although it can be difficult for busy adults to find much time during during the weekday to spend in their gardens, at least a small amount of daily attention can prevent small problems from becoming serious. Walk around your garden at the end of the day and look for drooping leaves, signs of pest damage, and anything else that may be putting your plants at risk.
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