Beat the Heat: 5 Summer Landscaping Tips to Protect Your Yard During Ontario’s Hottest Months.

July in Kitchener-Waterloo means sun, heat, and dry spells — and while we love a good summer day, your lawn and garden might not feel the same. Mid-summer is the perfect time to take action and protect your landscaping from stress and dehydration. Here are five ways to keep your yard healthy and beautiful all season long — using smart strategies and quality materials from Adams Landscape Supply.

1. Mulch for Moisture Retention - A thick layer of mulch is one of the most effective ways to combat heat stress. It insulates plant roots, prevents rapid evaporation, and suppresses weeds. Try Black Beauty or cedar mulch to lock in moisture and keep beds looking fresh.

2. Upgrade Your Soil for Drought Resilience - Healthy soil = healthy plants. Adding organic-rich garden mix or triple mix improves moisture retention and gives your greenery the nutrients it needs to thrive through a dry spell. Adams offers high-quality soil blends by the bag or bulk.

3. Water Early and Deeply - Watering in the early morning helps reduce evaporation and gives your plants a better chance to absorb what they need. Skip daily shallow watering — aim for deep, infrequent sessions to encourage strong root growth.

4. Use Stone to Reduce Maintenance - If your lawn is struggling in high-traffic or sunny areas, consider replacing grass with decorative stone. It’s heat-resistant, tidy, and never needs watering. Explore options like river rock, granite, or limestone in our decorative stone collection.

5. Add Shade Where You Can - Create shaded zones with pergolas, tall plants, or trees to reduce direct sun exposure. For seating areas, use light-coloured flagstone or pavers that reflect heat rather than absorb it.

Looking to keep your yard looking its best all season long?

Check out our guide on Enhancing Curb Appeal with Quality Landscaping Materials for ways to upgrade residential landscapes with durable materials that shine year‑round.