As another stretch of intense Texas heat settles in, homeowners may wonder whether their lawns, flowers and landscaping can survive the summer. According to Texas A&M AgriLife, the answer is yes—with the right approach. Summer watering can be confusing at times. Rather than watering more often, experts recommend watering smarter, reducing plant stress and avoiding common mistakes that can do more harm than good.
Heat Stress Doesn’t Always Mean Trouble
Even healthy, well-watered plants can show signs of stress during extreme heat. Temporary wilting during the hottest part of the day is normal, as plants often lose water faster than they can absorb it. If they recover by evening, there’s usually no cause for concern.
However, prolonged heat combined with drought can weaken plants and make them more susceptible to insects and disease. Regularly walking through your yard and checking plants for changes can help catch problems before they become serious.
Water Deeply, Not Daily
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is watering too frequently.
Instead, Texas A&M AgriLife recommends watering deeply but less often, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. This encourages plants to develop deeper root systems, making them more drought tolerant.
A few simple ways to tell if it’s time to water include:
- Stick your finger a few inches into the soil around plants. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait another day.
- Walk across your lawn. If your footprints remain visible, the grass likely needs water.
Newly planted trees and shrubs are the exception, as they require more consistent watering until they become established.
Morning Is the Best Time to Water
Early morning is the ideal time to water lawns and gardens.
Watering before temperatures rise reduces evaporation and gives moisture time to soak into the soil before the day’s heat arrives. It also helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases that can develop when foliage stays wet overnight.
If your irrigation water contains higher levels of salt or comes from reclaimed sources, avoid spraying leaves directly, as salt can damage plant foliage.
Choose Efficient Irrigation
Drip irrigation, bubblers and low-flow watering systems are among the most efficient ways to keep plants healthy during drought because they deliver water directly to the root zone.
Traditional lawn sprinklers can still be effective, but homeowners should periodically inspect sprinkler heads, check water pressure and ensure the system is distributing water evenly.
Yes, You Can Overwater
Even during a drought, too much water can damage plants.
Excess watering reduces oxygen in the soil, encourages root rot and can harm trees that prefer well-drained conditions, including many native Texas oaks.
Homeowners should also be careful when irrigating lawns around mature trees, as keeping the soil constantly saturated can create long-term problems.
Mulch Makes a Big Difference
Applying two to three inches of organic mulch around plants helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature and suppress weeds.
However, mulch should never be piled against tree trunks. So-called “mulch volcanoes” trap moisture against the bark, increasing the risk of disease and insect damage.
Hold Off on Fertilizer
Summer is generally not the best time to fertilize stressed plants.
Many fertilizers contain mineral salts that can add additional stress during periods of high heat, particularly when irrigation water already contains elevated salt levels. A soil test is the best way to determine if fertilizer is truly needed.
Pick Plants Built for Texas
Long-term success often comes down to selecting plants suited for Texas conditions.
Drought-tolerant native species, xeriscape plants and varieties recognized through the Texas Superstar program generally perform well in the state’s challenging climate while requiring less water and maintenance.
Plant placement also matters. Many landscape plants benefit from afternoon shade, especially during extended heat waves. Shade cloth can provide temporary protection for sensitive plants, but it should not rest directly on the foliage.
Don’t Forget About Yourself
While caring for the landscape, gardeners should also protect themselves from the Texas heat.
Working during the early morning hours, staying hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing and taking frequent breaks in the shade can help prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
With thoughtful watering, proper plant selection and a little patience, most Texas landscapes can continue to thrive—even during the hottest days of summer.
