Georgia has been running a little low on rain lately, and our landscapes are starting to feel it.
Even though most established plants can handle a few dry weeks, especially with the cooler temperatures, ongoing drought conditions can quickly take a toll on lawns, trees, and garden beds if we don’t give them a little extra care.
At Plants Creative Landscapes, we’re all about helping your outdoor spaces thrive through every season, even the dry ones. Here are a few simple ways to keep your landscape healthy and hydrated while still conserving water.
Water smarter, not more often
It’s tempting to water every day when things look dry, but that can do more harm than good. Instead, water deeply and less frequently to encourage stronger root systems. Early morning is the best time to run your irrigation before the sun has a chance to steal it all through evaporation.
If you’re a Genius Irrigation customer, your controller automatically adjusts watering times based on weather data. This is a great time to double-check that everything is running efficiently.
Add or refresh your mulch
Mulch isn’t just pretty. It’s protective. A good layer, about two to three inches, helps lock in soil moisture, insulates roots, and reduces weeds that compete for water. If your beds are looking a little bare, a mulch refresh can make a huge difference in helping your plants ride out the dry spell.
Prioritize your plants
If water restrictions become more severe, focus your efforts on trees and shrubs. They’re the backbone of your landscape and much harder to replace than annuals or turf. Deep soakings at the base of larger plants will do far more good than frequent, shallow watering.
Stay observant
Drought stress can show up as early leaf drop, curling, or a dull gray green color in your lawn. Catching it early means you can adjust before permanent damage sets in.
A little mindfulness goes a long way. By working with the weather, using smart watering habits, and keeping an eye on your plants, you can help your landscape stay resilient and beautiful even in the driest of times.
If you’re unsure how your irrigation system is performing or want us to take a look at your property, reach out to your Property Care Manager.
Let’s keep your landscape and our Georgia water thriving together!