Louisiana is no stranger to hot and humid summers, but when the temperature soars and rainfall becomes a distant memory, our gardens can bear the brunt of the extreme conditions: high heat and drought.
If you’re watching your once-lush lawn turn brown or your favorite plants wilting, don’t worry! Here are some tips to help your green spaces survive and even thrive during extreme heat and drought.
Water Smartly
As Landscape Designers in New Orleans, LA, we frequently see homeowners forget the importance on the correct timing and frequency of lawn watering, especially during times of extreme heat and drought.
Deep, Infrequent Watering: Rather than daily light sprinkles, water your plants deeply and less frequently. This encourages deeper root growth, making plants more resilient to drought.
Water Early or Late: The best time to water is in the early morning or late evening when the sun is not as intense. This minimizes evaporation and ensures more water reaches the plant roots.
If you’re looking for a smart home solution that can water your lawn while you’re away, consider giving us a call about our Rain Bird Installation services. Rain Bird is a smart watering system that utilizes smart home features and WiFi timers to self-adjust for weather all-season long, along with keeping you posted with automatic alerts.
Mulch Matters
Laying a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around plants can:
- Reduce soil temperature.
- Minimize moisture evaporation.
- Suppress weed growth, which competes with your plants for water.
Choose Drought-Resistant Grasses and Plants
Choosing the correct grass and plants are important. If you’re searching online, be sure to narrow your search down to grass and plants that work best for Louisiana-specifically, as different types of grass and plants work well in different parts of the United States, than others.
While this might be a long-term strategy, consider reseeding your lawn with drought-tolerant grass varieties like Bermuda or Buffalo grass. Similarly, look for plants native to Louisiana or those known for drought resistance.
If you’re looking for a less-maintenance solution, consider adding Artificial Turf. We at Miller Outdoors specialize in Artificial Turf installation, and can help transform your backyard into a haven where a traditional lawn would be one less hassle for you to handle, especially during times of extreme heat and drought.
Mow High and Less Frequently
Raise the blade on your lawnmower. Longer grass blades shade the soil, reducing moisture loss and protecting from the scorching sun.
Taller grass often develops deeper roots, enabling it to access water sources that are further below the surface. Additionally, mowing less frequently can reduce the stress on your lawn.
Avoid Fertilizing During Peak Heat
Fertilizers can encourage new growth, which demands more water. Save the fertilizing for cooler, moister times of the year.
Focus on Soil Health
Healthy soil retains water more effectively. Consider adding organic compost to improve soil structure and water retention.
Group Plants by Water Needs
By positioning plants with similar watering requirements together, you can ensure that each plant gets just the right amount of moisture without wasting water.
Shade Can Be a Savior
During extreme heatwaves, temporary shading using cloth or garden fabric can protect vulnerable plants from the harshest midday sun.
Check Your Irrigation System
Leaks, inefficient sprinkler heads, or poorly positioned drippers can waste substantial amounts of water. Ensure your system is in top shape, and consider investing in drip irrigation for the most efficient watering.
Limit or Delay New Plantings
New plants typically require a lot of water to establish. If possible, delay adding new plants to your garden until conditions are less harsh.
While Louisiana’s extreme heat and drought present a formidable challenge, with the right strategies, you can keep your lawn and garden healthy. If you’re in doubt, please be sure to give us a call at (504) 452-3131 or Schedule Your Phone Consultation. Remember, the key lies in being water-wise and understanding the unique needs of your green space. With a bit of diligence, you can ensure your garden not only survives but thrives during these testing times.