Top Tips for Summer Landscapes in Westchester County

Top 4 Summer Landscaping Priorities for Homeowners in Westchester and Putnam County

As summer heats up across the Hudson Valley, homeowners in Westchester and Putnam County face the challenges of high humidity, intense sun, and the threat of drought stress. These conditions can take a toll on lawns, plants, and garden beds if the proper care isn’t taken. At Maple Leaf Associates Inc., we’ve helped local clients manage their landscapes through every season. Here are the top four priorities to focus on during a hot, humid summer.

1. Watering Wisely

In the summer heat, it’s tempting to water more often—but how and when you water is just as important as how much.

• Water Early: Water your lawn and garden beds in the early morning to reduce evaporation and allow roots to absorb moisture before the day heats up.
• Water Deeply and Less Frequently: Deep watering encourages stronger root growth. Avoid daily light watering, which promotes shallow roots and weakens plants over time.
• Inspect Irrigation Systems: Check for clogged nozzles or misaligned sprinkler heads that can waste water and leave areas dry.

If you're unsure how to optimize your irrigation, a professional landscaping company can help evaluate your system and recommend adjustments for maximum efficiency.

2. Mulch and Moisture Retention

Mulch plays a vital role in keeping plant roots cool and locking in soil moisture during high temperatures.

• Replenish Mulch: A 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch helps insulate soil, suppress weeds, and reduce watering needs.
• Avoid Piling Mulch: Keep mulch away from the base of trees and shrubs to prevent rot and pest infestations.
• Use the Right Mulch: Bark, shredded hardwood, or composted leaf mulch all perform well in humid climates.

Professional landscapers understand how to apply mulch correctly and can identify areas of your landscape that would benefit most from added protection.

3. Monitor and Maintain Plant Health

High humidity can invite fungal diseases and pests, especially if your plants are already stressed by heat. Regular monitoring is essential to prevent long-term damage.

• Prune for Airflow: Thinning out dense shrubs and plants helps improve air circulation and reduces the chance of mildew or blight.
• Scout for Signs of Trouble: Yellowing leaves, leaf spots, or distorted growth may signal heat stress, pests, or disease.
• Feed Lightly: Avoid heavy fertilization in peak heat, which can burn roots and promote weak, fast growth. Instead, consider compost tea or organic slow-release options.

A trained eye can spot problems early. Partnering with a landscape professional ensures timely treatment and helps prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs.

4. Choose Heat-Tolerant Plants

When planting or replacing shrubs and perennials during the summer, it’s important to select varieties that can thrive in hot, humid conditions common in Westchester and Putnam County.

• Recommended shrubs: Boxwood, inkberry holly, and oakleaf hydrangea are great heat-tolerant choices that perform well in this region.
• Perennials that thrive: Consider black-eyed Susan, echinacea, Russian sage, and daylilies for long-lasting color and resilience.
• Native plants: Plants native to the Hudson Valley are naturally more drought-tolerant and disease-resistant.

Choosing the right plant for the right place is critical to long-term success. Our team can help you select, source, and install the best options for your summer landscape.

If summer’s extreme weather is putting stress on your landscape, let the experts at Maple Leaf Associates Inc. help. Call (845) 526-2024 to schedule a summer maintenance consultation. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Westchester and Putnam County with seasonal landscaping, irrigation care, mulch installation, tree planting, and more.