Watering Smarter: Lawn and Garden Tips for Hot Weather

When summer temperatures soar, maintaining a lush lawn and vibrant garden can often feel like a losing battle. But with a few strategic adjustments, you can keep your yard thriving while using water more efficiently. Whether you're facing drought conditions or just trying to reduce your utility bill, watering smarter, not more, is the key to success.

Here are some essential tips to keep your lawn and garden healthy this summer:

1. Time Your Watering Right

The best time to water is early in the morning, ideally between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. At this time, temperatures are lower, and wind is usually calm, allowing water to soak into the soil instead of evaporating. Evening watering is a second-best option, but it increases the risk of fungal diseases since plants stay wet overnight. The most important thing is to avoid watering during the heat of the day, when as much as 50% of water can be lost to evaporation.

2. Understand That Deep and Infrequent Wins the Race

Rather than watering daily, aim to water deeply a few times a week. Deep watering encourages roots to grow down into the soil, making plants more drought-resistant. For lawns, aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Use a rain gauge or an empty tuna can to measure the amount of water your sprinkler system is delivering.

3. Make Mulch Your Best Friend

Mulching your garden beds helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch — such as shredded bark, wood chips, or straw — around flowers, vegetables, and shrubs. You want to avoid piling mulch directly against stems or tree trunks, as this can lead to rot.

4. Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants

In hot weather, not all plants are created equal. If you're planning new landscaping or looking to replace struggling greenery, consider drought-tolerant options like lavender, yarrow, salvia, ornamental grasses, and succulents. Native plants are also a great choice, as they've adapted to your region's climate and typically require less water and care.

5. Use Smart Irrigation Tools

Modern irrigation technology can take the guesswork out of watering. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing waste. Smart controllers and soil moisture sensors can automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather and soil conditions. These tools can lead to significant water savings and healthier plants.

6. Don't Forget the Lawn

Grass can go dormant in extreme heat and bounce back when conditions improve, but you can help it stay greener longer by mowing at a higher setting, approximately 3 inches. Taller blades shade the soil, reducing evaporation and protecting roots. Additionally, sharpen your mower blades to prevent tearing, as this makes grass more susceptible to heat and disease.

Efficient watering isn't just good for your garden — it's good for the environment and your wallet. By adjusting your habits to accommodate hot weather conditions, you can conserve resources and still enjoy a beautiful outdoor space throughout the summer. Small changes, such as adjusting your watering schedule and using mulch, can make a significant difference in how your lawn and garden perform during the heat.

• Spring Décor Updates to Brighten Your Home
• Simple Daily Habits to Maintain a Cleaner Home
• Don't Let Winter Win: How to Freeze-Proof Your Garage
• How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
• Winterproofing Windows and Doors: A Guide to Keeping the Cold Out
• How to Future-Proof Your Home for Changing Needs
• Home Happiness 101: Small Upgrades That Can Make Every Day Feel Better
• Fall Cleaning Tips For Decluttering Before the Holidays
• How to Create a Cozy Fall Retreat in Your Backyard
• Why Fall is Prime Time for Window Replacement

• Tips for Transitioning Your Closet From Summer to Fall
• Why September Is the Best Month to Paint Your Home's Exterior

• The Best Home Styles for Enjoying Spring Weather
• What to Do the First Week in Your New Home
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• How to Research Crime and Safety
• What Buyers Need to Know About Home Warranties
• Browsing for Homes Online? Follow These Shopping Tips
• How to Look Past Bad Staging
• What Happens If Interest Rates Change After You Buy?
• How to Compare Two Homes You Love

• Post-Holiday Finances: How to Reset Your Budget for Home Buying
• New Year, New Home: How to Set Smart Home-Buying Goals for the Year Ahead

• Packing Tips for Sellers: Preparing for a Spring Move
• What to Store, Donate, or Toss Before Listing
• What Buyers Notice First in Listing Photos
• How Spring Sellers Can Enter The Market With Confidence
• Tax Considerations Home Sellers Should Know About
• The One-Room-at-a-Time Spring Prep Strategy
• What's the Difference Between Listing a Home and Marketing It?
• How to Respond to Buyer Feedback Without Panicking
• Transparency Builds Trust: Why Honesty Sells Homes Faster
• Winter Selling Myths That Shouldn't Keep You From Listing

• The Value of Local Market Knowledge When Selling Your Home
• Selling in Snowy Conditions: Safety, Access, and Presentation Tips