Pro Tips: Caring for your outdoor space in August

Caring for your trees and shrubs, and other tips from our Pro Staff 

Putting these items on your To Do list this month will make sure your trees and shrubs are healthy and ready for the coming cooler seasons, 

August is typically one of the hottest times of the year, when gardens and gardeners are both subject to being baked by the hot sun. Gardening this month is best done in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are more comfortable, and you are less likely to suffer heat-related illness or injury.

Shrubs and Trees  

• Pick up and destroy fruit that has fallen from your fruit trees to limit insect infestations. Protect ripening fruits from birds by covering plants with a netting. Prop up branches of fruit trees that are threatening to break under the weight of a heavy crop.
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• Make sure newly-planted shrubs and trees get plenty of water. Install stakes for training and shaping.
• Evergreens can be planted or transplanted now to ensure good rooting before winter arrives. Water both the plant and the planting site several days before moving.
• Soak shrubs periodically during dry spells with enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches.

General Maintenance and Planning

• Plan for and purchase any shrubs and trees you plan to plant this fall.
• Water, water, water! Early morning is the best time to water. Target plants directly, and water deeply. Avoid getting leaves wet in the hot sun. Avoid soaking containers during the hottest part of the day.  Both of these can burn plants.
• Keep a close watch on your birdbaths, water features and hummingbird feeders. Prevent or correct mold, stagnation and mosquito larvae. If your feeders are getting worn or cracked, or have developed leaks, check out our delightful assortment! 
• Continue weeding to reduce competition for water and nutrients.
• Beware of powdery mildew, which is caused by moisture and humidity. Help prevent mildew by watering in the cool of the morning, when roots can absorb water –  but excess will evaporate as the day warms. Avoid overhead sprinkling in mildew-prone areas. Do not compost leaves that are mildewed.
• When the temperature is higher than 85 degrees, avoid chemical applications such as fertilizer, fungicide or insecticide.
• Add compost and mulch to keep your garden cool and to prepare for fall planting.

Come back for more Pro Tips on caring for your lawn and garden!   We’ll give you a heads up on pests and problems to watch for, and how to resolve any pest issues you might be experiencing.