July Garden Survival Guide
How to Tend Your Plants Through Houston’s Hottest Month
July in Houston can be brutal on plants — and gardeners. With soaring temps, quick-drying soil, and a spike in pests, it’s a month that separates the hardy from the heat-stressed. But with a few simple shifts, your garden can keep thriving (and you can stay sane).
💧 1. Water Smart — Not More
Hot weather doesn’t always mean you need more water — just smarter watering.
Tips:
Water early in the morning, not in the evening (less evaporation + fewer fungal risks).
Focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root systems.
Add or refresh mulch to slow evaporation and keep roots cool.
🌿 2. Edit Ruthlessly: Remove Spent Plants
Not every plant is meant to survive July. And that’s okay!
Signs it’s time to say goodbye:
Leggy, yellowing, or pest-ridden annuals
Spring veggies that have bolted or stopped producing
Anything that’s become more stress than joy
Clearing space now can reduce pest pressure and make room for fall planting prep.
🐛 3. Keep an Eye Out for Summer Pests
Pests thrive in hot, dry weather — and they move fast.
Watch for:
Spider mites on tomatoes, beans, and herbs
Aphids hiding under leaves
Leaf miners, scale, and whiteflies on ornamentals
Caterpillars on milkweed and native sunflowers
Use integrated pest management (IPM):
Blast pests off with a hose
Remove heavily infested leaves
Introduce beneficial insects or apply insecticidal soap only when needed
🦟 4. Don’t Forget the Mosquitoes
Watering, shade, and container plants can all attract mosquitoes.
Mosquito tips for gardeners:
Dump out standing water in pots, saucers, and forgotten tools
Refresh birdbaths and pet bowls every 2–3 days
Use fans or mosquito dunks around patio seating
Grow lemon balm, basil, or marigolds near high-traffic areas
🌱 5. Plan for Fall
July is a maintenance month, but it’s also a good time to get ahead.
Start:
Prepping space for fall crops
Saving seeds from spring bloomers
Taking notes on what thrived — and what didn’t
If you need help planning your next season or deciding what to plant and when, we offer seasonal consults and garden coaching tailored to Houston’s unique rhythms.
Not Sure If You Need a Consult or Coaching?
Learn the difference to decide which better fits your needs.