Heat-Resistant Plants & Summer Lawn Care

Utah’s summer heat can be brutal on your lawn and garden. The combination of high temperatures, dry conditions, and intense sunlight can stress plants and turf if they’re not properly cared for. But don’t worry—you can keep your yard looking fresh and green all season long with heat-resistant plants and smart summer lawn care techniques. Here’s how to beat the heat and keep your landscape thriving!

1. Choose Heat-Resistant Plants

Planting the right greenery is half the battle. Opt for drought-tolerant, heat-loving plants that can handle Utah’s summer climate. Some great choices include:

  • Perennials: Russian Sage, Yarrow, Coneflowers, Black-eyed Susans

  • Shrubs: Lavender, Sagebrush, Barberry

  • Ornamental Grasses: Blue Fescue, Fountain Grass

  • Ground Covers: Ice Plant, Creeping Thyme

These plants require less water and maintenance while still adding color and texture to your landscape.

2. Water Deeply & Efficiently

Shallow watering causes weak roots that dry out quickly. Instead, water deeply (about 1–1.5 inches per week) to encourage deep root growth. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation.

3. Adjust Your Mowing Habits

Cutting your lawn too short makes it more vulnerable to heat stress. Set your mower to a higher setting (around 3 inches) to provide shade for the roots and reduce moisture loss. Also, keep your mower blades sharp to prevent tearing the grass.

4. Use Mulch to Protect Soil Moisture

A 2–3 inch layer of mulch around plants and trees helps retain soil moisture, reduce heat stress, and prevent weeds from taking over. Organic mulch like wood chips or bark is an excellent choice.

5. Reduce Lawn Size with Hardscaping & Xeriscaping

If your lawn struggles in the summer, consider replacing some grassy areas with drought-friendly landscaping. Hardscaping elements like paver paths, decorative rock gardens, and raised beds can add beauty while reducing water use.

6. Provide Shade & Wind Protection

Installing pergolas, shade sails, or even planting trees strategically can help keep your yard cooler and more enjoyable during peak summer heat.

7. Check for Lawn & Plant Stress Signs

Watch for brown spots, wilting, or curling leaves—these could be signs of dehydration or heat stress. If you notice these symptoms, adjust your watering schedule or add shade protection as needed.

Conclusion

Beating the summer heat doesn’t have to mean sacrificing a beautiful landscape. By choosing heat-resistant plants, watering wisely, and adjusting your lawn care routine, you can keep your yard thriving all season long. Need help with summer lawn care, xeriscaping, or irrigation solutions?

Call GR8 Landscaping at [801-712-0238]

Jerdon Johnston