Hello More Than Gardeners,
We hope this note finds you enjoying the summer season. As we move into the warmer months, we wanted to take a moment to share a few important updates, observations, and reminders with you directly.
Watering Is Essential – Even for Native Plants
We respectfully remind you that all plants need water, including native species. Newly installed plants, annuals, small perennials, and transplants are especially vulnerable during periods of hot weather and drought. Please monitor your garden during dry spells and water as needed.
A common misconception is that native plants never require watering. While established natives are often more resilient, they still need regular water during their establishment period and during extended drought conditions.
Please Be Patient with Your Plants
The past winter and spring were colder than usual, and we have observed that many perennials, shrubs, and other plants have been slower to emerge and grow this season. If some of your plants appear behind schedule, we encourage you not to panic.
They are simply responding to the unusual weather patterns we have experienced. Plants are living organisms, and like all living things, they respond to their environment. A little patience can go a long way. Before assuming a plant has failed, give it time to wake up and grow at its own pace.
How Weeds Harm Your Plants
Weeds compete directly with desirable plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight. During hot summer months, this competition intensifies. Many invasive weeds grow faster and larger than ornamental and native plants, allowing them to shade out young perennials and shrubs.
Weeds can:
Deprive plant roots of moisture during dry periods
Reduce airflow around plants, increasing disease risk
Harbor insect pests
Spread rapidly through seeds or underground roots
Prevent newly installed plants from becoming established
In severe cases, aggressive weeds can weaken or even kill valuable garden plants.
Why Summer Cleanup Is Important
If your garden did not receive a spring cleanup, summer is an excellent time to regain control before weed populations explode. A professional summer cleanup typically includes:
Removal of invasive and unwanted weeds
Pruning and deadheading where appropriate
Edging garden beds
Monitoring plant health
Replenishing mulch as needed
Improving the appearance and structure of planting areas
These services help your garden remain healthy, attractive, and easier to maintain throughout the rest of the growing season.
Supporting Native Plant Gardens
At More Than Gardens, we specialize in organic landscape maintenance and native plant installations. Native plants provide valuable habitat for pollinators and wildlife, but they still need support during their establishment period. Keeping weeds under control is one of the most important steps in helping native gardens thrive.
Schedule Your Summer Cleanup
A midsummer cleanup can make a dramatic difference in the health and appearance of your landscape. Whether your garden needs a light refresh or a complete weed intervention, our team is here to help. We use environmentally responsible practices that support healthy soil, pollinators, and the local ecosystem.
We look forward to continuing to work with you to keep your garden thriving through the hottest months of the year.
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Thank you for growing with us.
Agatha & the More Than Gardens Team