Houston homeowners love sprucing up their yards in spring, but we see many avoidable landscaping mistakes! Here are three big ones to avoid this season.
1. Planting the Wrong Trees & Shrubs
Not all trees thrive in Houston’s climate. Some need cooler temperatures, while others require better drainage. Houston’s unique combination of heavy clay soils, high humidity, and intense summer heat means that many popular ornamental plants and trees from other regions just won’t survive long here. For example, maple trees may look beautiful but often suffer from heat stress and root issues in our area.
Do this instead: Plant native trees and shrubs that are adapted to our conditions. Species like Live Oak, Bald Cypress, Crepe Myrtle, Yaupon Holly, and Texas Sage can withstand extreme weather and require less maintenance. Native plants also tend to attract local pollinators and beneficial insects, promoting a healthier ecosystem in your yard.
2. Overwatering Your Lawn
Many homeowners think daily watering is good, but it actually weakens grass roots!
Houston’s spring weather can be unpredictable. We may get periods of drought followed by heavy rain. Overwatering not only wastes water but also encourages shallow root systems, fungal growth, and pest infestations. Plus, overwatering contributes to runoff, which can carry fertilizers and pesticides into storm drains, affecting our waterways.
Do this instead: Water deeply 2-3 times per week in the early morning. This helps the water soak down to the root zone where it’s needed most and gives your lawn time to dry out during the day. You can check if your lawn needs water by walking on it—if the grass doesn’t spring back, it’s time to water.
3. Neglecting Soil Health
If your flowers and plants aren’t thriving, your soil might be the issue! Houston soil often needs amendments to stay fertile.
Many homeowners spend money on new plants, only to see them fail because the soil lacks nutrients or drains poorly. Houston’s clay-heavy soils can compact easily, restricting root growth and holding too much moisture, which leads to root rot. In addition, repeated use of chemical fertilizers can deplete the soil’s organic matter over time.
Do this instead: Conduct a simple soil test to check pH, nutrient levels, and soil texture. Add compost, organic matter, or expanded shale to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching with organic materials can also enhance soil health over time, reduce weed growth, and help retain moisture during hot months.
Need help with landscaping? Contact us for expert recommendations and custom solutions for your Houston yard!
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