July
Lawn & Garden Tips

In the Garden

Water Wisely. During dry weather, continue to keep the garden adequately watered. Remember, a weekly deep, thorough soaking is more beneficial than a daily light sprinkling. Water between 6-10am to avoid evaporation.
Mulch, Mulch, Mulch. Conserve water, relieve plant stress and control weeds by applying a 2-inch thick layer of mulch.
A Tropical Oasis. Now is the perfect time to plant all tropicals including mandevilla, hibiscus and bougainvillea. Water well and they'll thrive in the heat.
Refresh Flowers. It's common for a spring/summer annual or two to decline before the end of the season. Cut back leggy annuals to encourage bushier growth and blooms and replace any spent plants to keep your garden tidy and bright.
Feeding Time! The dog days of summer can make your plants dog-tired. Energize your perennials and annuals to keep them blooming. Dr. Earth Total Advantage Rose and Flower Fertilizer is organic, so you won't need to worry about burning in the heat.
Relax Outdoors. It's outdoor entertaining and relaxation season. Provide a retreat with a comfortable patio set complete with a patio umbrella for shade.

Bring in Blooms. Don't be afraid to cut blooms from your garden to make fresh, fragrant flower arrangements. Some favorites include dahlias, zinnias, cone flowers, hydrangeas and more.
Water While You're Away. Add Soil Moist to pots. The granules absorb water and release it as needed.
Feeding Time. Continue feeding your houseplants monthly.

Water in the morning. Water your lawn in the early morning between 6-10am. A deep watering allows water to penetrate the roots so they grow deeper giving you a healthier, more waterwise lawn. Water until just before you see run-off.
Feeding Time. Both cool-season and warm-season lawns need to be fed on a regular basis. Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer like Armstrong Garden Centers Lawn Food every other month. If your lawn has high traffic, a monthly feeding is desirable.
Watch for Lawn Disease. Late July is when lawn diseases or pests can be problematic. If you see brown spots or other issues bring in a sample and picture to Armstrong Garden Centers and our experts can diagnose the issue and provide a solution.
Move it Up and Keep It Sharp. Raise the mower blade up a notch and sharpen the blade. Taller grass can withstand dry weather and a grass blade with a clean cut needs less water.

Keep it Clean. Clean out birdhouses after baby birds have left the nest. Clean hummingbird feeders every 5-7 days so they don't get sticky.
Birds are Thirsty Too. Make sure to clean and refill your birdbaths to give our fluttering friends a place to drink and bathe.