Late summer is a transitional phase in landscaping, where the vibrant blooms of early summer begin to fade, and the anticipation of autumn’s arrival lingers in the air. It’s a crucial time to maintain the allure of your yard and ensure it remains a haven of beauty and vitality. Written by one of the most reputable landscaping companies in Calgary, this article offers a comprehensive guide to late-summer landscaping. We’ll explore how to nurture your plants, preserve colour, and keep your yard looking vibrant and inviting.
1. Assess and Prune
Before embarking on late-summer landscaping, assess the current state of your yard. Identifying plants that require pruning or deadheading is essential for promoting new growth and preventing disease.
Pruning Strategy
Trim away dead or diseased branches and spent flowers. Pruning encourages healthy growth and helps direct energy where it’s needed.
Deadheading
Regularly remove faded flowers to stimulate continuous blooming. This practice also prevents plants from putting energy into seed production.
2. Maintain Adequate Watering
As temperatures continue to rise in late summer, proper watering becomes crucial to sustain your plants’ health and vibrancy.
Deep Watering
Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. This makes plants more resilient to drought conditions.
Morning Watering
Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and give plants ample time to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.
3. Fertilize Wisely
Late summer is an ideal time to provide your plants with the nutrients they need for robust growth and a burst of colour.
Balanced Fertilizer
Choose a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that provides essential nutrients without overstimulating growth.
Follow Guidelines
Follow recommended application rates to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to pests.
4. Add Colourful Accents
In late summer, introducing vibrant accents can infuse new life into your yard, compensating for fading blooms.
Late-Blooming Perennials
Opt for perennials that bloom in late summer or early fall, such as asters, sedums, and mums, to keep your yard colourful.
Container Gardens
Create container gardens with colourful annuals to provide instant pops of colour in strategic areas.
5. Address Pest and Disease Issues
Late summer is a prime time for pests and diseases to make their presence known. Vigilance and proactive measures are essential to maintaining your yard’s vibrancy.
Regular Inspection
Routinely inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases. Early detection allows for prompt intervention.
Natural Predators
Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and birds, which can help control pest populations.
6. Weed Management
Weeds compete with your plants for water and nutrients, affecting their overall health and appearance. Late summer is an opportune time to tackle weed management.
Mulch
Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to suppress weed growth and conserve moisture.
Hand-Pulling
Regularly hand-pull weeds before they have a chance to spread. This prevents them from establishing strong root systems.
7. Plan for Fall Transitions
As late summer evolves into fall, it’s wise to consider how your landscaping will transition. Strategically selecting plants that shine in autumn ensures your yard remains captivating.
Fall-Blooming Plants
Incorporate fall-blooming perennials like goldenrod and ornamental grasses that thrive in Calgary’s climate.
Leaf Management
Prepare for the arrival of falling leaves by having a plan for leaf removal to prevent smothering of your plants.
Trust Tazscapes for All of Your Calgary Landscaping Needs
Late-summer landscaping demands a thoughtful approach that embraces the changing seasons while preserving the vibrancy of your yard. By assessing and pruning, maintaining proper watering and fertilization, adding colourful accents, addressing pests and diseases, managing weeds, and planning for fall transitions, you can ensure that your outdoor space remains inviting and beautiful. With help from one of the premier landscaping companies in Calgary, your late-summer landscape will not only flourish but also serve as a testament to the skillful balance of nature and design that characterizes Calgary’s finest yards.
Transform your home and increase its value and curb appeal while working with the best landscape company in Calgary with Tazscapes. Our award-winning team of landscape contractors and designers is recognized for creating and delivering stunning landscape designs in Calgary that are beautiful, functional and affordable. We offer various services, including landscape design, residential, commercial and acreage landscaping, hardscaping, such as retaining walls and concrete patios, and softscaping, such as sod and artificial grass installation. Our eye for detail, meticulous planning and unique landscaping methods and eye-catching results is why we’re a two-time Consumer Choice Award Winner. Contact us today at 587-578-0747 or [email protected].