Late Summer Landscaping Tips: Keeping Your Yard Vibrant Through the Heat

As the summer months start to wind down, many homeowners notice their once-thriving landscapes looking a little tired. The late summer heat in Western Chicago can be brutal on your lawn, plants, and even trees—especially if your yard isn’t properly prepared. But with a few smart adjustments, you can keep your outdoor space looking fresh, green, and vibrant all the way into fall.

Here are our top late summer landscaping tips to help your yard beat the heat:

1. Adjust Your Watering Routine

Hotter days mean more evaporation, and if you’re still watering the same way you did in spring, your plants may not be getting enough. Shift your watering to early morning—between 5 AM and 9 AM—so the water soaks into the soil before the sun burns it off.

Also, focus on deep watering instead of frequent shallow watering. This encourages deeper root growth, which helps your lawn and plants become more drought-tolerant.

2. Add a Fresh Layer of Mulch

Mulching isn’t just for spring. A fresh 2–3 inch layer of mulch around trees, flower beds, and shrubs helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature—crucial during the hottest part of the year. Mulch also blocks weed growth, which can steal water and nutrients from your plants.

We recommend natural, shredded hardwood mulch for our Western Chicago clients. It looks clean and breaks down naturally into the soil.

3. Keep Grass Longer When You Mow

One of the easiest ways to protect your lawn is by simply raising your mower blade. Cutting your grass too short exposes the soil, increases moisture loss, and stresses the roots. Instead, keep your lawn at about 3–4 inches tall.

This longer grass provides natural shade to the soil, helping it retain moisture and stay cool—even during a hot afternoon.

4. Deadhead and Prune for More Blooms

If you have flowering plants or perennials, now’s the time to deadhead any faded blooms. This not only keeps your plants looking fresh but encourages them to produce more flowers.

Prune any overgrown or damaged branches to allow better airflow, which reduces the risk of mold and pests.

5. Inspect Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation and sprinkler systems work hard during the summer—especially in hot stretches. Take a few minutes to inspect your system for leaks, clogged heads, or misdirected spray. An efficient irrigation system ensures water gets exactly where it’s needed without waste.

If you’re using a hose and sprinkler, make sure it’s reaching all areas evenly. Dry patches can sneak up fast during late summer heat.

6. Plan Ahead for Fall Planting

Late summer is the perfect time to start planning your fall planting projects. Whether you're thinking about adding new shrubs, native plants, or installing hardscapes like patios or walkways, early prep gives you an edge.

At Skyline, we help homeowners design landscapes that transition beautifully from summer into fall with vibrant color and structure.

Don’t Let the Heat Win—Call Skyline Exteriors Landscaping

Your yard doesn’t have to fade just because it’s hot out. With a few simple updates, you can keep it looking its best until the first frost.

Need help with mulching, lawn care, or landscape upgrades? Skyline Exteriors Landscaping offers custom maintenance and design solutions built for Western Chicago’s unique climate.

Call us today or request a free consultation—we’ll make sure your yard finishes summer strong.