August

• You may notice an increase in ants this month. Spot treat as needed in lieu of mass treating your entire property.

• Florida's heat is at its peak! While we can head inside to escape, your plants can not! Look for signs of heat stress and combat as needed with hand watering. Plants with recent nutritional issues and young plants are most susceptible. Be sure to monitor your irrigation system's zones and timings to make the most of the water you're applying.

• With the stifling heat, now is the most recognizable time to appreciate the cooling qualities of your or your neighbor's shade trees. If your yard is vacant of large trees, take note which areas would best accommodate a tree. Consider shade canopy on the house or play areas as well as where the A/C unit is placed in your analysis.

• If you're growing blueberries, be certain to trim back your bushes after harvesting.

• If weeds are taking over, take charge by hand picking, spot treating with herbicide and replenish the mulch to 2" to 3" to help prevent their establishment.