You can keep your garden and lawn growing and attractive during a drought. It just takes some simple gardening maintenance changes on your part and the expertise of a professional landscaping service. We can set your sprinkler system to minimize water usage while maximizing benefits of watering. We can also create decorative elements and suggest drought-resistant plants that will keep your yard looking good throughout periods of little rain.
Gardening Maintenance Tips
Mowing During a Drought
Grass grows at a much slower rate than usual during a drought. Keeping your grass looking neat is important, but it’s also important not to mow too often or cut grass too short. This can scalp the grass and slow growth even more. If you do your own mowing, set your mower blades high and don’t mow below approximately three inches. Cutting grass any lower than that can weaken or kill healthy new grass growth.
To Fertilize or Not to Fertilize?
It’s advisable to forego fertilizing on your own during a drought. Fertilizer can burn dry, drought-stressed grass. Some weeds may flourish during dry periods. Weed and feed products can damage grass too. Watering grass at the proper time of day is more important than fertilizing during a drought. If you decide to use a hose to water small areas or small lawns, water in the evening when the sun is off the grass. This gives the water time to fully soak in before the sun comes up and causes evaporation.
Flower and vegetable gardens need fertilizing at the time of planting and plant food during the growing season. Apply fertilizer and plant food carefully, avoiding leaves and blooms, and then water. Plant food and fertilizer can damage wet plants.
What About My New Lawn?
Seeding and sodding a new lawn or reseeding barren areas during a drought is difficult, but not impossible. The type of grass you select will determine whether your new lawn survives. We can help you choose the best drought-resistant grass. Professional planting gives your new grass the best chance at establishing itself and thriving.
Watering During a Drought
If you are under water restrictions, you can make the most of the amount of water you’re allowed by watering in the evening (see above in the section about fertilizing) and ensuring that your sprinkler is set so that all or most of the water hits your lawn and not the sidewalk or street. If you have a large lawn, water a different section every day or as often as permitted.
Find New Ways to Keep Your Yard Attractive During a Drought
We can plant drought-resistant decorative plants in your flowerbeds and around your yard. We also use stone and hardscaping to create focal points that draw the eye away from the grass itself and add curb appeal.
For gardening maintenance assistance for your lawn and garden during a drought, make an appointment with us for a consultation. We’ll help you keep your yard looking great despite drought conditions.
