When temperatures climb into the 90s and the rain seems to disappear, your landscape begins working harder than ever. Trees, shrubs, lawns, and flowers all depend on one thing to stay healthy through the hottest weeks of summer: consistent, proper watering.
The challenge is that more water isn’t always better.
Many homeowners assume that watering every day is the safest approach. In reality, frequent shallow watering encourages plants to develop shallow root systems that struggle when the weather becomes even hotter. The goal is to water deeply and consistently, encouraging roots to grow deeper into the soil where moisture lasts longer.
Watering Turf
For lawns, aim to provide about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. Water early in the morning whenever possible. Morning irrigation allows moisture to soak into the soil before the day’s heat arrives while giving grass blades time to dry, reducing the risk of disease. Evening watering is preferable to the middle of the day if morning isn’t an option, but avoid leaving turf wet overnight whenever possible.
Watering Trees & Shrubs
Trees and shrubs require a different approach. Newly planted trees and shrubs need regular attention because their root systems are still becoming established. Mature trees benefit from slow, deep watering around the root zone rather than frequent light sprinkling. A slow trickle from a hose or a soaker hose for an extended period is often far more effective than a quick spray.
Mulch
Don’t forget about your landscape beds. A two- to three-inch layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture, moderates soil temperature, and reduces evaporation. During periods of extreme heat, mulch becomes one of the simplest ways to help your plants withstand stress.
Keep an eye on your landscape as temperatures rise. Wilting leaves during the afternoon can be a normal response to heat, but plants that remain wilted into the evening, leaves with brown edges, or lawns that don’t spring back after you walk across them are signs that additional watering may be needed.
Every property is unique. Soil type, sun exposure, plant selection, and irrigation systems all influence how much water your landscape requires. Paying attention to how your landscape responds is often more valuable than following a rigid schedule.
Your Investment will Reward You
A healthy landscape is an investment that rewards you every day with beauty, enjoyment, and value. If you’re unsure whether your landscape is getting the right amount of water—or you’d like help adjusting your irrigation practices—our team is here to help. Together, we can keep your landscape healthy, resilient, and thriving through even the hottest days of summer.
Contact Us
Landmark Landscapes of Sheboygan Falls, WI is a full-service landscape company. Based out of Sheboygan County, with a Green Lake, Wisconsin satellite office. We are centrally located and uniquely positioned to service the areas of Sheboygan, Elkhart Lake, Fond Du Lac County, Green Lake County, Ozaukee County, Manitowoc County, and Door County. We can manage your property with our Total Property Care system and design and build projects large and small. Contact us today at 920-467-6442 to learn how we can care for you.
