Jeffery Melvin
6/10/24
This Summer in Texas
We all know that Houston heat is going to be intense this summer. With temperatures rising and days getting longer, it’s crucial to keep your yard in peak condition. Here at Terraform, we want to share the best techniques to maintain a healthy and beautiful yard throughout the season.
1. Water Your Yard Early in the Morning
Watering your plants early in the morning allows them to absorb moisture before the sun intensifies. This helps reduce water loss due to evaporation and ensures your plants stay hydrated throughout the day.
2. Use Large Droplets for Watering
Whether you’re using a hose or a sprinkler, make sure to use large water droplets that will penetrate the soil. Smaller droplets can evaporate quickly, wasting water and increasing your bill. Large droplets ensure the water reaches the roots where it’s needed most.
3. Mulch Your Garden Beds
Mulching your garden beds is an excellent way to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, can also improve soil quality as it decomposes. Spread a layer of mulch around your plants to protect them from the harsh summer heat.
4. Avoid Watering on Rainy Days
Don’t water your yard on rainy days. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. Always check the weather forecast and adjust your watering schedule accordingly to save water and protect your plants.
5. Choose Native Plants
Install native plants that are adapted to the Texas climate. These plants are better equipped to handle the sunny and shady areas of your yard. Native plants require less water and maintenance, making them a sustainable choice for your garden. Thank you for taking the time to read this. If you need any help with your landscaping projects in Houston and the surrounding area, feel free to reach out to Terraform.
Jeffery Melvin
7/10/24
Houston, it’s hot! Let’s explore some ways to keep your home cool this summer using plants. While some plants can purify the air at home, it’s also essential to have shade, quality airflow, and hydration to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the crippling heat.
Outdoor Plants
Shade and Cooling: Tall hedges and small trees can provide ample shade, reducing the temperature around your home. Planting these shrubs and trees around your property can create cool areas on hot days. Shade over your pool can also help prevent water loss through evaporation. Some great options for outdoor shade include:
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana): A native tree known for its sprawling branches and dense canopy.
Texas Ash (Fraxinus texensis): Provides excellent shade and is well-suited to the Texas climate.
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica): Offers shade and beautiful blooms during the summer months.
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana): Not only provides shade but also attracts wildlife with its vibrant berries.
Airflow and Cooling: Incorporating plants that promote airflow can help keep outdoor areas cooler. Consider these options:
Bamboo: Fast-growing and great for creating privacy screens that allow air to flow through.
Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora): Adds movement and air circulation with its tall, slender stems.
Indoor Plants
Indoor plants beautify your home and contribute to a cooler, more comfortable environment. Some plants are particularly effective at improving air quality and maintaining humidity levels, which can help you stay cool.
Best Indoor Plants for Cooling and Air Quality:
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Known for its air-purifying abilities and low maintenance.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Helps maintain indoor humidity and purifies the air.
Aloe Vera: Not only cools the air but also provides soothing gel for sunburns.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Excellent for adding humidity to the air and improving air quality.
Hydration and Cooling: Plants like these can help maintain indoor humidity, keeping the air cooler and more comfortable.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Great for improving indoor humidity and easy to care for.
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens): Adds a tropical feel and helps maintain moisture in the air.
By incorporating these plants into your indoor and outdoor spaces, you can create a cooler, more refreshing environment to beat the Houston heat. Not only will these plants provide shade and improve air quality, but they will also add beauty and tranquility to your home and patio.
