Don’t Let Your Landscape Fry This Week: Why Watering Matters!

If you’ve stepped outside recently in Volo or the northwest suburbs of Chicago, you’ve probably noticed two things:

1. It’s hot.

2. Your lawn and landscaping are noticing too.

Temperatures are climbing into the 80s all week and no rain in the near forecast!

This stretch of warm, dry weather can quickly put stress on lawns, flowers, shrubs, trees, and especially newly installed landscaping. While we all enjoy sunny days and patio weather, your plants may not be quite as enthusiastic. And remember, your plants can’t text you when they’re thirsty.

Proper watering during periods of heat and drought is one of the most important things you can do to protect your investment and keep your landscape healthy throughout the season.

Why Hot, Dry Weather Is Tough on Landscapes

When temperatures rise and rainfall disappears, soil begins losing moisture rapidly. Plants and turf grass work harder to stay healthy, often pulling water reserves from deeper in the soil. Without supplemental watering, many landscapes begin showing signs of stress surprisingly quickly.

Common signs of drought stress include:

• Brown or yellowing grass

• Wilting flowers or drooping leaves

• Dry or curling plant edges

• Slow growth

• Bare or thinning lawn areas

• Shrubs looking dull or faded

Newly planted trees, shrubs, flowers, and sod are especially vulnerable because their root systems are still developing. In other words, your landscape may be thirsty long before it starts waving a tiny white flag.

Proper Watering Makes a Big Difference: Find the Sweet Spot

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during hot weather is watering too lightly or too often. Shallow watering can actually encourage weaker root systems.

Instead, landscapes benefit most from deep, thorough watering that allows moisture to reach the root zone.

Best Watering Practices for Chicago-Area Landscapes:

Water Early in the Morning

The best time to water is typically between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. This helps reduce evaporation and allows plants to absorb moisture before the hottest part of the day.

Water Deeply, Not Briefly

A longer soak a few times per week is usually more effective than frequent light watering.

Focus on New Plantings

Freshly installed sod, trees, shrubs, and flowers need extra attention during hot weather.

Don’t Forget Containers and Hanging Baskets

Planters and baskets dry out much faster than landscape beds and may require daily watering during extreme heat.

Watch for Dry Spots

Areas near driveways, patios, retaining walls, and sidewalks often dry out faster due to reflected heat.

Lawn Watering Tips During Summer Heat

Healthy lawns generally need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week during dry conditions. If rainfall is limited, supplemental watering becomes important to maintain color and root health.

Some additional lawn care tips include:

• Avoid mowing grass too short during heat waves

• Keep mower blades sharp

• Leave grass clippings to help retain moisture

• Avoid heavy fertilization during extreme heat

Brown lawns do not always mean dead lawns — but prolonged drought stress can lead to permanent damage if conditions continue too long without watering.

Protect Your Landscaping Investment

Professional landscaping, hardscaping, plantings, and lawn installations are valuable investments in your home’s curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment. Consistent watering during periods of heat and drought helps protect that investment and keeps your property looking its best all season long. Whether you recently completed a new landscaping project or simply want to maintain a healthy lawn and outdoor space, staying proactive during dry weather is essential.

Perricone Bros Landscaping: Growing Community Roots since 1977

At Perricone Bros Landscaping, we provide professional landscaping services throughout Volo and the surrounding northwest Chicago suburbs, including landscape design, planting, hardscaping, lawn installations, outdoor living spaces, and seasonal property improvements.

If you’re considering upgrading your landscape, installing new plantings, or creating a more beautiful outdoor environment, our team is here to help you design a space that thrives in every season.