How I Prepare My Lawn for Summer in Richmond, TX

How I Keep My Lawn Thriving Every Summer in Richmond, TX

Summer in Richmond, Texas, can be brutal—we’re talking scorching heat, long sunny days, and the kind of dry spells that can make even the most determined gardeners throw in the towel. But over the years, I’ve figured out a routine that keeps my lawn looking green and healthy, even in the thick of July. If you live in a hot climate like I do, here’s what works for me—and might just work for you too.

Mow a Little Higher

One of the simplest changes I made that had a huge impact? Raising my mower height. I keep my grass at about 3 inches during the summer. It might not sound like much, but those extra inches provide crucial shade for the soil and help protect the roots from the heat. Plus, it helps reduce water evaporation, meaning I don’t have to water quite as often.

Aerate Early

I always aerate in early June before the worst of the summer heat sets in. This gives the soil a chance to breathe, helps nutrients reach the roots, and improves water absorption. In our clay-heavy soil here in Richmond, this step is a must for keeping your lawn from compacting and drying out.

Water Deeply, Not Daily

When it comes to watering, I focus on quality over quantity. I water deeply a few times a week—early in the morning before the sun’s fully out. This encourages deeper root growth and helps the lawn stay hydrated longer. Watering in the morning also cuts down on evaporation and reduces the chance of fungal growth.

Don’t Skip the Mulch

Mulch is my secret weapon for flower beds. It helps retain moisture, keeps the soil temperature steady, and reduces weed growth. In this heat, mulch is essential—I use a 2-3 inch layer in all my beds, especially around my more delicate plants.

My Favorite Summer Plants

When picking plants for summer in Richmond, I go for heat-tolerant, low-maintenance winners. These are a few of my favorites that keep my yard colorful without constant attention:

• Lantana – Bright, bold, and practically made for Texas summers.

• Texas Sage – Hardy, beautiful, and blooms like crazy in the heat.

• Red Yucca – Tough as nails and adds great texture to beds.

• Zinnias – These annuals give nonstop color and hold up surprisingly well.