Summer heat can be tough on plants, especially when temperatures rise, rainfall slows down, and containers dry out quickly. A good watering routine helps keep annuals blooming, perennials healthy, trees and shrubs established, and lawns looking their best through the hottest part of the season.

The key is to water deeply and consistently, rather than giving plants a quick splash every day. Deep watering encourages stronger roots, helps plants handle heat stress, and makes better use of every drop.

Annuals are some of the hardest-working plants in the summer garden. They bloom heavily, grow quickly, and often need more frequent watering than established landscape plants.

Annuals planted in the ground should be watered when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Containers, hanging baskets, and window boxes may need water every day during hot weather and sometimes twice a day during extreme heat, full sun, or windy conditions.

Use a gentle shower nozzle or watering wand to water evenly without damaging blooms or washing soil out of pots.

Established perennials are usually more drought-tolerant than annuals, but they still need consistent moisture during long dry stretches.

Newly planted perennials need regular watering while their roots settle in. Established perennials generally do best with about one inch of water per week, either from rain or supplemental watering. During extreme heat, they may need more.

Mulch around perennials to help hold soil moisture, protect roots, and reduce watering needs.

Trees and shrubs need extra attention in summer, especially if they were planted this year or last year. Even if they look established above ground, their root systems are still developing.

New trees and shrubs should be watered deeply and slowly so that moisture reaches the root ball and surrounding soil. A quick spray from the hose is usually not enough.

Established trees and shrubs also benefit from deep watering during extended dry periods, especially evergreens, hydrangeas, Japanese maples, arborvitae, and other plants that can show stress quickly in summer heat.

Lawns need deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong roots. Light daily watering can lead to shallow roots and more stress during summer heat.

Most lawns need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Early morning is the best time to water because it allows moisture to soak in before the heat of the day and helps reduce disease issues.

During very hot or dry periods, cool-season lawns may naturally slow down or go dormant. If you want to keep your lawn green, consistent watering is important.

The right watering tools can make summer plant care easier, more efficient, and less wasteful. Whether you are watering hanging baskets on the porch, newly planted shrubs, garden beds, or a large lawn, choosing the right setup helps get water where it needs to go.

For containers, annuals, and hanging baskets, a watering wand or adjustable nozzle gives you better control and a gentle flow that will not damage flowers or wash soil out of pots.

For trees, shrubs, and perennial beds, soaker hoses are a smart choice because they deliver water slowly at the soil level. This helps reduce runoff and encourages deeper watering around the root zone.

For lawns, sprinklers help cover larger areas more evenly. Oscillating sprinklers are a good choice for rectangular spaces, while impact and traveling sprinklers can help cover larger lawn areas.

For everyday watering, a quality garden hose makes a big difference. Look for a hose that is durable, easy to move, and long enough to reach the areas you water most often. Hose reels, hose carts, nozzles, and quick connectors can also help make watering faster and more convenient.

A rain gauge or moisture meters is also a helpful tool for summer. It lets you see how much rain or sprinkler water your lawn and garden are getting, so you can adjust your watering routine as needed.

Water early in the morning whenever possible.

Water deeply instead of lightly.

Check containers and hanging baskets daily.

Use mulch to help hold moisture in the soil.

Water the soil, not just the leaves.

Pay extra attention to anything newly planted.

Use the right watering tool for the job.

Not sure if your plants need more water, less water, or a different approach? Stop by one of our three Suburban Lawn & Garden locations and ask our friendly garden advisors. You can also email us, and we will be happy to help.

A smart watering routine can make all the difference during the summer months. Whether you are caring for colorful annuals, newly planted shrubs, young trees, or your lawn, Suburban Lawn & Garden has the watering supplies, hoses, sprinklers, and expert advice to help keep your landscape healthy all season long.

For trees, shrubs, and perennial beds, soaker hoses are a smart choice because they deliver water slowly at the soil level. This helps reduce runoff and encourages deeper watering around the root zone.

For lawns, sprinklers help cover larger areas more evenly. Oscillating sprinklers are a good choice for rectangular spaces, while impact and traveling sprinklers can help cover larger lawn areas.

For everyday watering, a quality garden hose makes a big difference. Look for a hose that is durable, easy to move, and long enough to reach the areas you water most often. Hose reels, hose carts, nozzles, and quick connectors can also help make watering faster and more convenient.

A rain gauge or moisture meters is also a helpful tool for summer. It lets you see how much rain or sprinkler water your lawn and garden are getting, so you can adjust your watering routine as needed.