When did July get here? It seems like just last week we were tending to our nurseries in perfect spring weather. Whether or not we want to accept the reality that we're smack dab in the middle of the Houston summer, we do need to accept the fact that as the temperature increases so does the maintenance we need to perform on our yards.
This includes proper water, what to plan, pruning, fertilizing, and more. Our nursery pros put together this list to help your landscape prepare and thrive in our summer this year.
To Do List:
- Watering: Summer is here and it's going to be here for a while. When the outside temperature is consistently over 90-degrees you need to switch your landscape over to a summer watering schedule. Also, remember to water your trees deeply. For more info on watering click here.
- Weeds: They will pop up from time to time and it's best to quickly remove them. Moon Valley Nurseries stocks all of the things you will need for your weed prevention plan at our locations. Also, consider adding mulch to areas to reduce the number of sprouting weeds.
- Pruning: The Houston area is a large one and if you're reading this you could be in Lake Conroe or down in Galveston. Regardless of where you are, there is a chance we could get hit by a hurricane or a strong storm. Always be sure to remove dead branches or trim off some of the top weight on your trees.
- Fertilize: As we hit the summer, some of the material in our landscapes can show heat stress. If it happens do not worry! A fertilizer can help the tree adjust to the change in weather. Continue to use Moon Dust and combine that with our easy to use Super Palm Juice, which turns palms green and keep them green. It contains all the special nutrients palms needs that are not found in our soils. Available now at any of our nurseries.
Crape MyrtleThe Crape Myrtle has something to offer for every season but stands out in late spring to summer when it begins producing stunning blooms of purple, pink, red, and white flowers that are pleasing to the eye when planted in clusters or accent locations. The Crape Myrtle is known for its long and constant bloom cycle and works well in just about any landscape. In the fall, the Crape Myrtle’s foliage turn to a showy bright orange.
Magnolia
The Magnolia is a moderate growing tree that is large enough to provide shade as well as a beautiful focal point. They tend to look more pyramidal in shape when they are young, and don’t be fooled by this appearance. Over time, the Magnolia’s natural spreading nature and large leaves create a great canopy for year-round shade. A great investment for any landscape needing shade or even privacy from neighbors.
Red Oak
Native to the Houston region, the Red Oak is one of the most popular trees for a number of reasons. It is a fast growing tree that is hardy to the warm summer months, its canopy is massive and open, and its foliage is not only attractive, but it changes with the season. In the winter, the Red Oak drops its leaves, which adds heat to your home and its leaves grow back just in time for much-needed shade in the summer.
Tru-Green Elm
Also knows as the Chinese Elm, the Tru-Green Elm has been widely used throughout the Southern U.S. for more than 100 years and is a popular choice for our customers. The Tru-Green Elm thrives in hot and sunny environments and performs very well in the toughest soil. It has deep, dark green leaves and develops a massive shade canopy at a young age. The Tru-Green Elm can literally grow anywhere and are an ideal choice for Houston’s tough growing climate.
Live Oak
One of the most stunning trees on display, the Live Oak is a great choice for Houston plating because of its adaptability, performance in the hot summer months and its ability to grow in tough soil conditions. Its name is derived from its ability to “live” throughout the winter when other oaks are dormant or leafless. It has a wide canopy of dark green leaves and when planted in rows it can give your landscape a privacy wall or shade barrier that provides immense protection and beauty.
Camphor
A fast growing, dense, shade-producing tree that grows to a moderate height, the Camphor Tree looks great in any landscape design where a lush appeal is desired. This uniquely shaped tree grows well in any soil type and requires very little maintenance. A solid performer for Houston, this tree is hardy and heat tolerant.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus are the embodiment of tropical flowers! These medium to large growing shrubs bloom multiple bright colored flowers that can attract hummingbirds. Hibiscus bloom in white, yellow, and the classic red. They thrive in pots and in well-prepared garden soil. Be sure that you pot and your garden soil drains well for maximum potential for your hibiscus.
Agapanthus
Evergreen perennial with grassy foliage and clusters of beautiful blue flowers on long stems. Bright green, knee high foliage has a delicate appearance with dramatic clusters of trumpet shaped blooms on top of long stems in late spring and fall. Agapanthus are good accent plants in Tropical and Mediterranean landscapes and very effective in mass plantings.