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🌞 Let’s Welcome August: How to Protect Your Landscape from Houston’s Summer Heat

  • Writer: Beck Landscaping
    Beck Landscaping
  • Aug 1
  • 4 min read

As August rolls in, one thing’s for sure—Houston heat is no joke. With long days of intense sunshine, soaring temperatures, and little relief in sight, our landscapes can take a serious beating.

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At Beck Landscaping, we’ve seen firsthand how brutal Texas summers can be on lawns, plants, and outdoor spaces. That’s why we’re sharing some pro tips to help protect your landscape and keep it looking its best—even in the hottest stretch of the year.


☀️ 1. Choose Heat-Tolerant Plants

Houston’s unique climate calls for a smart approach to plant selection. Instead of constantly replacing withered blooms or scorched greenery, why not start with plants that actually love the heat?

Native and drought-resistant plants are adapted to our local weather patterns, requiring less water and maintenance. They not only survive the summer—they thrive with minimal fuss. If you're planning a new installation or looking to refresh your beds, consider these heat-hardy favorites:

  • Mexican Feather Grass – Delicate and airy, this ornamental grass adds movement and thrives in dry conditions.

  • Lantana – A pollinator magnet that produces bright, cheerful blooms all summer long.

  • Salvia – Tough, colorful, and drought-tolerant, perfect for full-sun gardens.

  • Agave – A sculptural, low-water succulent that stands up to serious heat.

  • Esperanza (Yellow Bells) – With bright yellow flowers and great drought tolerance, it's a Texas favorite.

Choosing the right plants now can make a world of difference in how your landscape looks and performs during peak heat.


💧 2. Water Smart (Not Just More)

It’s a common mistake: the hotter it gets, the more water you use. But in reality, overwatering can cause shallow roots, fungal issues, and water waste. What your landscape really needs is efficient watering at the right time of day.

Early morning is the best time to water—before 9 a.m.—when cooler temperatures allow for better soil absorption and reduced evaporation. If your lawn or garden is struggling, adjust how deeply you’re watering instead of how often.

Smart watering strategies include:

  • Water early in the morning, not in the heat of the day.

  • Focus on deep, infrequent watering to promote healthy root growth.

  • Check for dry spots—irrigation systems may miss certain areas without routine maintenance.

  • Upgrade to a custom irrigation system with timers or rain sensors for maximum efficiency.

Proper watering isn't about doing more—it's about doing better.


🍃 3. Use Mulch to Your Advantage

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to protect your landscape from the heat is by applying a healthy layer of mulch. It acts like a natural blanket for your soil, keeping it cooler and helping your plants retain vital moisture during those scorching August afternoons.

Here’s how mulch helps:

  • Retains soil moisture – reducing the need for frequent watering.

  • Keeps soil temperatures steady – protecting plant roots from overheating.

  • Suppresses weeds – preventing them from stealing nutrients and water.

  • Adds nutrients over time – organic mulch breaks down slowly and enriches the soil.

Spread 2–3 inches of natural mulch around your plants, trees, and flower beds. Just be sure not to pile it against plant stems or tree trunks, which can lead to rot.


🌳 4. Create Shade (for You and Your Plants)

Shade isn’t just for comfort—it’s a powerful tool in protecting your landscape. Many plants can’t tolerate full sun all day, and prolonged exposure can leave them wilted, faded, or burned. If your yard lacks natural shade, consider adding some structural or plant-based solutions to give your space (and your plants) a break from the sun.

Smart shade strategies include:

  • Pergolas or patio covers – Great for both you and your outdoor furniture.

  • Planting trees or tall shrubs – Think ahead with species that provide long-term canopy coverage.

  • Trellises or arbors with vines – Fast-growing climbers like jasmine, passionflower, or bougainvillea add charm and shade.

If you're building an outdoor living space, we’ll help you plan for integrated shade—so your patio, pool, or garden stays cooler and more comfortable all season long.

  

🔥 Bonus Tip: Summer Is the Perfect Time to Plan Ahead

While it’s easy to focus on surviving the heat, August is also a great month to start planning your fall or winter backyard upgrades. Project timelines, material orders, and design consultations take time—so the earlier you start, the better your space will be when cooler weather rolls in.

At Beck Landscaping, we specialize in custom outdoor living solutions, including:

  • Patio extensions and upgrades

  • Outdoor kitchens and fire features

  • Pool + landscape combination designs

  • Pergolas, decks, fencing, and more

And don’t forget—our Summer Special is still going strong:

✅ FREE Custom Design

✅ FREE Consultation

✅ 10% OFF Outdoor Living Projects over $5,000 (Valid through August 31)


Stay Cool—We’ve Got Your Yard Covered

August in Houston is intense, but your landscape doesn’t have to suffer. With the right plants, smart watering, strategic shade, and expert support, your yard can stay healthy—and even thrive—all summer long.


Let Beck Landscaping help you beat the heat and build the backyard of your dreams.

Call or message us today! Contact Beck Landscaping LLC for a FREE consultation.

📞 +1 (409) 795-8404 ✉️ info@becklandscapingllc.com

📍 Proudly serving South Houston since 2013


 
 
 

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