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| Essential Landscaping Strategies |
As we welcome the month of May, Houston is beginning to experience the rising temperatures that indicate the onset of a prolonged and intense summer. This increase in heat necessitates heightened commercial landscaping needs. For commercial property managers, this period serves as a vital opportunity to assess landscape readiness prior to the arrival of elevated temperatures, drought conditions, and intense UV exposure that can adversely impact properties.
Proactive landscape preparation not only ensures its longevity but also helps maintain your property's curb appeal, safeguards your investment, and mitigates potential damage. Below are effective strategies for ensuring your commercial property is equipped to endure the summer heat with both resilience and aesthetic appeal.
**Conduct an Irrigation System Assessment**
Water usage becomes paramount during a Houston summer. Begin by assessing your irrigation system for optimal efficiency. Implementing smart irrigation controllers that adapt to real-time weather conditions, as well as soil moisture sensors, will aid in conserving water while providing the necessary hydration at appropriate times. Inspect for damaged sprinkler heads, leaks, or inadequate coverage, particularly in high-traffic areas or locations prone to water pooling. At LMC Houston, we provide system assessments and maintenance services to ensure your property remains water-efficient and thriving.
**Apply Fresh Mulch**
Mulch serves as an essential asset during the summer months. A two- to three-inch layer of organic mulch acts as an insulator for the soil, helps retain moisture, and minimizes evaporation—factors crucial for protecting plant roots in extreme heat. Additionally, it suppresses weed growth that competes for water resources and enhances your property's professional appearance. Apply mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds while avoiding mounding against trunks or stems to prevent decay and pest issues.
**Select Drought-Tolerant Plants**
May presents an opportune moment to evaluate potential substitutions of water-intensive plant varieties with drought-tolerant alternatives. Assess whether native and adaptive species, such as lantana, esperanza, agave, and ornamental grasses, can infuse color and texture into your landscape while requiring significantly less water. Collaborating with LMC Houston will enable you to choose high-performing plant selections that are well-suited to your property’s soil type, sun exposure, and irrigation system.
**Maintain Turf Health Through Strategic Mowing**
During the hotter months, allowing grass blades to grow longer can provide soil shade, diminish evaporation, and enhance turf resilience. Adjust mower blades to a higher setting (approximately 3 inches for St. Augustine or Bermuda grass) and refrain from cutting more than a third of the grass blade at once. LMC Houston’s mowing teams adapt their practices seasonally to ensure your turf remains lush and robust, even under summer's demanding conditions.
**Monitor for Signs of Heat Stress**
Even well-maintained plants can be affected by summer heat. Remain vigilant for symptoms such as:
• Wilting during daylight hours, despite adequate moisture
• Brown or scorched leaf edges
• Patchy or thinning turf areas
These may serve as early warnings indicating that your landscape requires increased watering, shading, or pest treatment. LMC Houston offers seasonal inspections to identify issues early and recommend appropriate solutions.
**Implement Preventative Maintenance**
Warm and humid conditions foster the proliferation of pests and fungal diseases. Preventative measures established in May pave the way for a smoother summer. Activities such as fertilization, pruning, pest monitoring, and soil aeration will enhance plant health and alleviate stress. At LMC Houston, our proactive maintenance plans are customized to address Houston’s climate and your property’s distinct needs, ensuring optimal condition year-round.
**Develop a Proactive Landscape Strategy**
Houston summers present significant challenges for commercial properties. A proactive, professional approach is vital for maintaining your landscape's attractiveness, health, and cost-effectiveness during this demanding season. If you are prepared for summer preparations, LMC Houston possesses the expertise, resources, and experience to help your landscape flourish. Contact us today for a comprehensive seasonal evaluation.
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