Watering Wisely in the August Heat

When the August sun beats down and rain clouds are nowhere to be found, your garden needs you to water smarter—not harder. Whether you’re caring for potted annuals or deep-rooted trees, mastering the art of watering can make the difference between stressed, struggling plants and a thriving, resilient landscape.

At The Landscape Connection, we know northern Illinois summers can be brutal, but with these tips, you’ll keep your garden hydrated, happy, and beautiful all season long.

🌱 Tips for Efficient Watering

✅ Water deeply and less often

Shallow watering leads to shallow roots. Instead, water slowly so moisture soaks deep into the soil where roots need it most. This encourages plants to develop stronger, drought-resistant root systems.

✅ Morning is best

Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and give plants a chance to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of disease.

✅ Know your plants

Pair plants with similar water needs. For example, don’t plant thirsty astilbes next to drought-loving sedums.

✅ Use mulch

A 2–3 inch layer of mulch helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds competing for water.

✅ Containers need more love

Pots dry out faster than garden beds. In August, most potted plants need daily watering—sometimes even twice on hot, windy days.