As the seasons shift in South Florida, it’s easy to be lulled by spring’s beauty—lush blooms, fresh mulch, and mild temperatures. But experienced landscape designers know that summer brings new challenges. From the hot, dry days of Fort Lauderdale to the humidity-heavy landscapes of Weston and Davie, proper preparation is key to keeping your garden thriving through the season.
Whether you’re a home gardener or managing a larger commercial landscaping project, early planning can make the difference between a struggling yard and a summer-ready oasis. Here’s your guide to preparing your garden for success in the months ahead.
- Clean, Clear, and Refresh Your Garden Beds
The first step toward a resilient garden is removing weeds, debris, and any lingering spring clutter. Old foliage and decaying plants create the perfect habitat for insects and disease. Clearing beds early helps prevent infestations and promotes airflow—essential in Florida’s hot, humid summers.
After cleaning, topdress with organic compost. A blend of plant- and animal-based composts offers balanced nutrients. Plant-based composts improve soil structure, while manures deliver nitrogen. Too much nitrogen, however, can overstimulate leafy growth without producing flowers or fruits, so aim for a healthy mix.
You can also mix in amendments like green sand or kelp meal to provide essential micronutrients without overloading your soil.
- Improve Water Retention with Mulch
Mulch isn’t just decorative—it’s one of the best defenses against Florida’s summer heat. A well-mulched garden:
- Retains moisture in the soil
- Suppresses weed growth
- Regulates soil temperature
Apply a thick layer of mulch (2–3 inches) in spring so your soil is ready before summer temperatures peak. This is especially helpful in garden landscaping around trees and shrubs that act as “straws,” pulling moisture from the ground quickly.
- Prune and Shape for Growth and Control
Summer is a time of explosive plant growth. Pruning is critical—not just for shape and aesthetics, but to redirect energy where it’s needed. Trim back overgrown perennials, faded blooms, and any branches affected by spring storms. Use sharp, clean tools to avoid disease transmission.
Pro tip: Different plants require different pruning methods. Always research before cutting—especially if you’re working with tropical species often used in pool and landscape design near me.
- Choose Summer-Loving Plants
Florida’s warm climate allows for a rich variety of plants, but it’s important to select species that can tolerate high temperatures and intense sun. For landscaping in Florida, focus on heat-hardy vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals. Consider:
- Fruiting plants: peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, squash, melons
- Leafy greens: Swiss chard, arugula, mustard greens
- Herbs: basil, rosemary, thyme, mint
Native and adapted plants are ideal, as they’ve evolved to withstand South Florida conditions and typically require less water and care—a major benefit for landscape gardeners near me managing both private and commercial landscaping spaces.
- Stay Ahead of Weeds
Weeds thrive in the same warm, wet conditions as your garden. Start weeding early and regularly. Preventing weeds from flowering and seeding gives you long-term control. Combine manual removal with strategic mulch placement for the best results.
- Maintain Your Tools and Irrigation
Well-maintained tools make gardening more efficient and safer. Summer is also a good time to check irrigation systems for leaks, clogged emitters, or inefficiencies. Water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and avoid fungal diseases.
Remember, consistent care now means fewer problems later when Florida’s sun is at full force
Let the Experts Help You Grow
Ready to get your garden or landscape summer-ready? Whether you’re cultivating a lush backyard retreat or overseeing a large-scale outdoor design project, partnering with seasoned professionals ensures lasting results.
Contact Cutters Edge Pro—your trusted team for yard landscaping, expert garden care, and commercial landscaping solutions in Davie, Weston, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Broward County. We’re not just garden designers near you—we’re your partners in creating beautiful, resilient landscapes that thrive all year long.
