July in South Florida brings the height of summer—long, hot days, high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. For commercial landscapes, these conditions can lead to stress, disease, and rapid overgrowth if not properly managed. Proactive care during this time is essential to preserve your property’s beauty, value, and safety.
Here are strategic ways to protect your commercial landscape during South Florida’s peak summer heat:
Adjust Irrigation for Seasonal Demands
Water needs increase dramatically in July, but it’s easy to overdo it. Use smart irrigation systems that adjust based on weather patterns and soil moisture. Watering should be done early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases. Also, regularly inspect sprinkler heads for blockages or misalignment that may cause uneven watering.
Mulch to Manage Moisture
A fresh layer of mulch helps maintain consistent soil moisture and shields roots from intense sun exposure. Mulch also acts as a weed deterrent, which is particularly helpful during Florida’s summer growing surge. Organic mulches like pine bark or melaleuca are excellent choices for heat endurance.
Choose Heat-Resilient Plants
If you’re updating your plant beds or replacing struggling flora, now is the time to choose species that love the heat. Consider hardy South Florida favorites like crotons, dwarf bougainvillea, plumbago, and firebush. These plants are not only colorful but also adapted to the region’s summer climate.
Maintain Lawns with Precision
Lawns grow aggressively in July, but over-mowing can damage grass. Raise mower blades slightly during summer to leave grass taller, which helps shade soil and conserve moisture. Keep blades sharp to avoid tearing the grass, which can leave it vulnerable to disease.
Monitor for Pests and Disease
Warm, wet conditions are ideal for pests like chinch bugs and fungal problems like brown patch or dollar spot. Regular inspections and preventative treatments will help catch problems before they escalate. Treating early reduces cost and protects surrounding plant health.
Manage Storm Risks
July is also the midpoint of hurricane season. Ensure trees are properly pruned, dead limbs removed, and drainage systems are clear. If you haven’t already, review your landscape’s storm-readiness and develop a post-storm recovery plan to keep your property safe.
Refresh Seasonal Color
If your spring annuals are fading, refresh your landscape with heat-tolerant seasonal color. Lantana, purslane, and vinca are excellent options to keep your beds vibrant and welcoming even under the summer sun.
By focusing on these maintenance and enhancement strategies, your commercial landscape can not only survive South Florida’s summer heat but thrive despite it. A healthy, beautiful exterior reinforces professionalism and provides a welcoming environment for customers and employees alike.
