Texas summers hit hard with searing heat, parched soil, and plants that grow like weeds, sometimes literally.
Early preparation makes the difference between backyard bliss and blistered lawns.
A few targeted efforts now can mean fewer problems and more comfort later.
1. Strengthen Your Lawn Against Heat and Drought
Lawn health often takes a nosedive once Texas temperatures soar and rainfall dries up. Without proper care, grass quickly becomes brittle, patchy, and vulnerable to weeds and pests.
A few proactive steps now can help turf endure scorching days and come out looking vibrant.
Weekly mowing keeps grass manageable, but the height of the cut matters more than frequency.
Never remove more than one-third of the blade in a single mowing session. Short cuts weaken grass by reducing photosynthetic area and exposing soil to sun and wind.
- Mow weekly, keeping grass at a healthy height to maintain strong root systems
- Avoid cutting more than â…“ of the grass blade to reduce stress and retain moisture
Soil compaction becomes a silent killer over time. Walking, playing, and even mowing create dense soil conditions that block water and nutrient absorption. Spring aeration loosens the soil and encourages deeper root growth.
- Aerate in spring to reduce compaction and improve access to air, water, and nutrients
- Use core aerators for best results, allowing holes to absorb moisture more effectively
Fertilization supports growth but must match seasonal needs.
Fertilizers tailored for summer conditions work best between April and October. Look for slow-release formulas that feed consistently without burning the grass.
Watering should happen early in the morning, when evaporation rates are lower.
Aim for one to two inches per week through deep soaking rather than frequent sprinkles. Inspect sprinklers and drip systems often to catch clogs, leaks, or misaligned heads before they sabotage hydration efforts.
For expert support with summer prep and professional care in Houston, trust Grass Pros.
2. Adjust Watering Schedules for All Landscaping
Plants in Texas face intense pressure during summer, and a consistent, efficient watering routine helps them survive and thrive.
Lawns may recover quickly, but trees, shrubs, and perennials suffer long-term if roots fail to grow deep enough. Frequent, shallow watering leads to short root systems that dry out fast under extreme temperatures.
A thoughtful irrigation plan focuses on soaking the soil slowly and thoroughly. Deep root development helps plants access water reserves during extended dry periods.
Instead of quick daily sprinkles, opt for longer watering sessions two or three times a week, adjusted based on rainfall and plant type.
Key practices to implement:
- Water trees and shrubs at the drip line, not near the trunk, to encourage outward root spread.
- Use a soil moisture meter to determine how far down water is reaching.
- Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between sessions to prevent root rot and fungal problems.
- Group plants by water needs so each irrigation zone can be optimized accordingly.
Adjust sprinkler or drip system settings to run at lower pressure for longer periods.
Water delivery should mimic rainfall, allowing time for absorption rather than running off into sidewalks and driveways.
For areas on slopes or compacted ground, break watering into cycles with brief rest periods to reduce runoff and increase absorption.
- Promotes stronger, deeper roots.
- Reduces water waste through evaporation.
- Keeps plants healthier and more drought-tolerant.
3. Refresh Outdoor Living Areas
Outdoor living spaces lose their shine during the off-season. Dirt builds up, cushions fade or grow mold, and furniture starts to show signs of wear. Early summer is the ideal time to tackle these problems and bring everything back to life.
Start with the basics:
- Wash or replace outdoor cushions that are stained, mildewed, or torn. A mild soap solution and scrub brush can work wonders, but sometimes replacements are the better option.
- Inspect furniture frames for rust, loose screws, broken legs, or sagging support. Tighten connections and consider repainting metal surfaces to prevent corrosion.
- Check umbrellas and canopies for holes, fading, or bent supports. Replace any damaged fabric or hardware before sun and wind make them worse.
Hard surfaces like patios and decks also deserve attention. Grime, pollen, and mildew create slippery or stained surfaces that look and feel neglected.
- Power wash decks, patios, and walkways to clear away months of buildup. A pressure washer with the right nozzle setting can strip off grime without damaging the surface.
- Repaint or stain wooden decks and fences to add a protective barrier against sun, rain, and heat. This keeps the wood from cracking, splintering, or fading.
Small touches go a long way when revitalizing a space:
- Add colorful throw pillows, a patterned outdoor rug, or a decorative lantern to refresh the look without spending much.
- Replace cracked or uneven pavers to improve safety and overall appearance.
- Rearrange seating areas to maximize shade and airflow for more comfortable lounging.
4. Control and Prevent Weeds Before They Spread
Weeds are relentless during a Texas summer. Their rapid growth and aggressive spread threaten to overtake even the best-maintained lawns and garden beds.
Ignoring them in spring gives them the upper hand just when temperatures rise and resources become scarce.
Staying ahead of the invasion is not just about aesthetics, it’s a necessity for plant health and soil stability.
Spring is the prime time for weed prevention. Early-season action reduces labor and chemical use later on. Start with a thorough inspection of lawn edges, flowerbeds, walkways, and anywhere moisture collects.
Weeds love neglected corners and areas with compacted or bare soil. A single weed left untouched can quickly spread seeds or grow roots that overtake nearby plants.
Manual removal should be the first line of defense. It works well for small areas or isolated intruders. Pulling weeds by hand or with a weeding tool after rainfall, or immediately after irrigation, makes the process easier.
Moist soil helps release the roots intact, reducing regrowth. Consistency matters. Weekly checks keep infestations under control before they multiply.
Pre-emergent herbicides offer another tool. These products stop seeds before they sprout, disrupting growth cycles without affecting established plants.
Application in late spring provides coverage during the prime germination period for summer weeds.
Choose a product labeled for your lawn type and climate zone. Always read instructions carefully and wear gloves or protective gear when applying chemicals.
5. Add Mulch and Tree Trunk Protection
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Mulching becomes one of the most effective methods to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature during a harsh Texas summer. Consistent soil conditions allow plants to thrive even when exposed to high temperatures and erratic rainfall.
A well-mulched garden bed or tree base cuts down on water loss and adds an extra layer of protection to vulnerable root systems.
Spread organic mulch in a two- to three-inch layer around garden beds, shrubs, and tree bases. Materials like bark chips, pine straw, or shredded leaves create a breathable blanket that locks in moisture and buffers roots from extreme heat.
Avoid piling mulch directly against trunks or stems, which can trap moisture and attract insects or disease.
- Recommended mulch depth: 2–3 inches
- Best materials: shredded bark, pine straw, composted leaves
- Keep mulch clear of trunks and stems by at least 2–3 inches
- Reapply or freshen mulch every couple of months during summer
Tree trunks, especially those of young or newly planted trees, face risks of sunscald and bark cracking due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. Thin bark lacks the natural insulation of mature trees, making it more susceptible to damage.
Protect trunks using breathable, light-colored materials that reflect sunlight while allowing air circulation.
Commercial tree wrap, kraft paper, or even cardboard sleeves can be used effectively, especially for saplings exposed to full sun.
6. Beautify and Personalize with Potted Plants & Gardens
Color, texture, and practicality can all be added to a backyard through thoughtful planting. Potted plants provide flexibility, letting homeowners change up looks with the seasons or personal preferences.
Containers allow precise control over soil conditions, placement, and care routines. They also make maintenance easier for those who prefer not to commit to large garden beds.
Annual flowers bring life to patios, decks, and doorways. Their extended bloom cycles and ability to tolerate sun exposure make them ideal for Texas yards.
Potted arrangements can be tailored to fit any style, traditional, tropical, or modern.
Great choices for vibrant, low-maintenance annuals:
- Marigolds: bright yellow and orange blooms, pest-deterring properties
- Impatiens: shade-loving and colorful
- Petunias: tolerate full sun and spread beautifully in containers
Containers of varying heights and sizes help create layers of interest. Pairing tall planters with trailing or cascading blooms adds movement and color in vertical space.
Grouping odd numbers of pots gives a more natural, organic look.
Vegetable gardening in containers or raised beds also brings visual and edible rewards. Plants like tomatoes, squash, and peppers thrive in Texas climates when watered consistently and given full sun.
Vegetables that flourish in summer containers:
- Cherry tomatoes: compact, fast-growing, and highly productive
- Bell peppers: vibrant, sweet, and colorful
- Yellow squash: great for raised beds with space to sprawl
Summary
A backyard can become a summer haven with the right preparation.
Lush grass, shaded corners, and thriving plants invite relaxation, gatherings, and peace of mind.
Taking action before the full force of summer heat arrives ensures everything looks good and functions even better when it matters most.
