Once you have your landscape design and installation finished, it is time to plan a schedule to maintain your lawn and garden. Your plants and lawn will need regular attention to look great and remain healthy. Sticking to a schedule over the summer will help you have a great-looking yard all year.
Stay Out of the Heat!
Maintaining your lawn in the heat of the day is dangerous for many reasons. You can get too hot, and this can mean dehydration, dizziness, and even sunburn! If you are working with a lawn mower, it becomes more dangerous if you are working in the hot sun. When you plan your schedule, consider avoiding the hours between 10 am and 4 pm. If the summer tends to bring you mild mornings and hotter evenings, adjust your schedule to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Prepare for the Sun
- Use sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Wear a hat to protect your head from the sun and keep cooler.
- Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from the sun and debris or bugs.
Plan Your Duties
When maintaining your yard, it is best to plan out each week the same. The major things to add to your schedule are watering the lawn, plants, and trees. A watering schedule should be in the evenings during the hot days, so more of the water doesn’t evaporate because of the sun. If you have a larger yard, consider using a timer to remind you to move your sprinklers around the yard, or have a sprinkler system installed. Water your plants when needed, which is probably daily or every other day. Don’t forget your trees and bushes! Mowing once a week is typical for homeowners. Mow in the morning or before you water in the evening. Plan a day for gardening, weeding, and maintaining bushes, shrubs, potted plants, and trees.
Find Helpers
Many people love yard and garden work. If you plan on a summer vacation, trade duties with a friend or family, so your lawn stays watered and mowed while you are gone. Give them a break when they go on vacation too!