It’s that time of the year where you’re beginning to wonder how to maintain your lawn and garden during summer. The summer sun here in Johnson City is relentless, and your lawn and garden feel the heat just as much as you do. Without a solid maintenance plan, your lush green grass and vibrant blooms can quickly wither. At Odiorne Feed, we know how to help your landscape survive and thrive during the dog days of summer.

First, master your watering schedule. You must water deeply and infrequently rather than sprinkling lightly every day. Deep watering encourages roots to grow further down into the soil where it stays cooler and moister. We recommend watering early in the morning before the sun gets high to minimize evaporation. This simple adjustment ensures every drop counts.

Next, adjust your mowing habits. Raise your mower blade to leave the grass a little taller. Taller grass shades the soil, keeping the roots cool and reducing moisture loss. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to prevent stressing the plant.

Finally, protect your soil. A thick layer of mulch in your garden beds acts like insulation. It retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. If your plants look stressed, hold off on heavy chemical fertilizers, as these can burn thirsty roots. Instead, use a slow-release option or organic compost to provide gentle nourishment.

By adapting your routine to the heat, you can keep your yard looking great all season. Stop by the store for the best hoses, sprinklers, and mulch in the Hill Country.