Here in the southwest, we begin to experience the heat of summer starting in April or May. When it comes to maintaining your home, there are certain considerations to safety and health in this weather. Ensuring there aren't plants or debris within 5 feet of the home will help protect against termites and fire threats. It can be 90 degrees at 9 AM, so plan outdoor activities accordingly. The hottest part of the day is 3 PM. It is important to have shade and water in this time and plan any outdoor activities to conclude as early as possible. Wear plenty of sunscreen because the sun is intense here.
The wintertime is the best time to do major outdoor work. It doesn't get incredibly cold or snow much, so it's an ideal time to work on the yard or even paint the exterior of your home. I like to plan indoor improvements during the summer. Even working in the garage can be tough in the summer out here.
Early mornings are a great opportunity to take care of landscaping chores. This is the time to get rid of any dead plants or weeds in the yard. Keeping on top of things is key to not having to spend hours trying to complete one chore. It is much simpler to pull a few weeds or rake as needed to keep your yard as low maintenance as possible.
Additionally, having plants that can tolerate the intense heat and drought conditions help cool the yard down and bring in a little color. Cacti, ocotillo and other desert natives bring a unique charm and often have beautiful and vibrant flowers.
Installing an irrigation system can help you save water and ensure your plants always look amazing.
Mulch can be a great way to save water as well and it comes in brown, black and red. Truly a staple for flower gardens.
Bird baths and hummingbird feeders are a great way to draw in the animal life during these hot months.
It's a unique experience for those of us in the desert, but summer is a truly special time to enjoy life, our families, and our homes.