Summers in Texas can be relentlessly hot, making even simple yard tasks feel like a trial by fire. But, as a homeowner, the necessity of yard work is an unavoidable reality. But don't worry! The team at Mahalic and Sons has got you covered. With our expertise and years of service in Caddo Mills, TX, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you stay cool while doing yardwork in the summer heat.

Hydration Is Key
It may seem obvious, but staying hydrated is the cornerstone of keeping cool in the summer. When working in the yard, keep a bottle of water within arm's reach and take frequent breaks to sip on it. Replacing the fluids you lose to perspiration is essential to preventing dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Dress Smartly
Your choice of clothing can make a big difference in how you handle the heat. Choose light-colored, breathable fabrics to reflect the sun's rays rather than absorb them. Also, consider investing in a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from direct sunlight.

Choose Your Yardwork Time Wisely
The sun's rays are most intense between 10 am and 4 pm. Whenever possible, schedule your yardwork early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperatures are cooler. Not only will this make your tasks more manageable, but it will also minimize your exposure to harmful UV rays.

Use Sunscreen
No matter what time you choose to do yardwork, apply a generous layer of broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Reapply every two hours to keep your skin protected from the damaging effects of the sun.

Cooling Breaks
Take regular breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area. This gives your body the chance to cool down and can prevent heat-related illnesses. A cool towel on the back of your neck can also provide relief from the heat.

Know Your Limits
Finally, it's crucial to listen to your body. If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or have a rapid, weak pulse, stop working immediately and seek a cool place to rest. These could be the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

At Mahalic and Sons, we know all about hard work, and we understand that you want your yard looking its best all year round. However, your health should always come first. Follow these tips to stay cool while tending to your garden this summer.

Stay safe, cool, and hydrated! For more tips or any yard service needs in Caddo Mills, TX, reach out to the team at Mahalic and Sons. We're here to help!

​Remember: when the heat gets too much, let Mahalic and Sons take over. We are experts in lawn care and landscaping and can ensure your yard stays beautiful, no matter the weather.

Hello from the Mahalic and Sons team, where we help you make your outdoor spaces radiant throughout the year. Today, we delve into the nitty-gritty of how Texas' blazing summer can affect your warm-season turfs and the steps to mitigate any negative impact.

Undeniably, the Texan summer is sweltering, and while many warm-season grasses such as Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine, and Buffalo grass are designed to thrive in this climate, extreme temperatures can stress them out. The secret to a lush, verdant lawn despite the heat lies in understanding how to handle this heat stress.

Effects of Intense Summer Heat on Your Lawn
Different grasses come with varying heat tolerances. However, when temperatures continually hit 90 degrees and above, even the most heat-tolerant species may show signs of strain. This can result in your lawn turning brown or entering dormancy to conserve vital resources. However, dormancy could lead to thinning grass, exposing more soil to the heat, and escalating evaporation, setting up a challenging cycle.

Mitigating the Summer Heat Impact on Your Lawn

1. Optimal Watering
Regular, proper hydration is your lawn's best friend during the hot season. Instead of frequent, shallow watering, go for less frequent but deeper watering. This encourages root development, enhancing your grass' drought resistance.

2. Mowing Best Practices
Consider raising your mower blade during summer. Longer grass shades the roots and reduces evaporation. A sharp mower blade is also crucial as it ensures clean cuts instead of tearing the grass, which could further stress it.

3. Fertilization and Aeration
Heavy fertilization during summer might not be ideal as it can burn your grass. Opt for a light spread of slow-release fertilizer. Also, spring soil aeration could help enhance water penetration and alleviate soil compaction.

4. Routine Check-ups
Keep an eye out for signs of diseases and pests, which tend to be common in stressed grass. Quick professional intervention can help contain any emerging issues.

At Mahalic and Sons, we understand the unique challenges that the Texan heat presents, and we're dedicated to helping you surmount them. A key point to note is that the battle against the heat begins long before summer arrives, and we're more than ready to guide you on this journey.

​For comprehensive guidance on maintaining a vibrant lawn in the hot Texan summer, reach out to our team in Caddo Mills, TX. We are committed to ensuring that you relish your outdoor spaces all year round.
Look out for more lawn care insights. Until then, keep cool and enjoy your summer!

Hello there! We’re Mahalic and Sons, your trusted providers of superior lawn care, maintenance, and landscaping services in Caddo Mills, TX. Today, we're addressing a common question we receive from our customers: "What are these weed looking things on top of my Bermuda grass? Are they seeds?"

What are Bermuda Grass Seed Heads?
Bermuda grass, scientifically known as Cynodon dactylon, is a warm-season perennial grass that is common in the Southern parts of the United States, including Texas. One characteristic of Bermuda grass that many homeowners observe is the formation of seed heads.

​These seed heads emerge from the grass's stalk, typically when the grass is under some stress, or when it has reached full maturity without being mowed. The seed head is a complex structure, often containing several spikelets that branch off from the central stem. These spikelets are where the seeds are produced and housed.

How to Identify Bermuda Grass Seed Heads?
Bermuda grass seed heads are distinct and relatively easy to identify. They are usually seen as Y or T-shaped structures at the top of the grass blade. Each arm of the Y or T shape contains multiple seeds. The seed heads are somewhat featherlike in appearance and can have a purplish hue. However, color may vary depending on the specific variety of Bermuda grass and the environmental conditions.

Should You Be Concerned About Bermuda Grass Seed Heads in Your Lawn?
Seeing Bermuda grass seed heads in your lawn isn't necessarily a cause for concern. It's a natural process and a sign that your Bermuda grass is healthy enough to reproduce. However, they may be an indication that your grass is stressed, potentially due to infrequent mowing, lack of water, or nutrient deficiency.
In terms of lawn aesthetics, seed heads may give your grass a rough, uneven appearance, particularly if they emerge in large quantities. This can detract from the smooth, carpet-like look that many homeowners aim for with Bermuda grass.
Moreover, some people find that Bermuda grass seed heads can be a bit tough underfoot, and in rare cases, they may even cause allergies in sensitive individuals.

Taking Care of Your Bermuda Grass
Regular and proper lawn care is essential to keep your Bermuda grass looking its best. This includes timely mowing, watering, and feeding. Mowing your Bermuda grass regularly before the seed heads emerge can help maintain a uniform, lush appearance.
If you notice an excessive number of seed heads, it might be time to reassess your lawn care routine. This could be a sign that your lawn is thirsty, hungry, or in need of a trim.
At Mahalic and Sons, we're experts at maintaining beautiful Bermuda grass lawns. If you're in the Caddo Mills area and need assistance with your lawn care, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help turn your lawn into the neighborhood's envy, Bermuda grass seed heads and all!

​Wrapping Up
While Bermuda grass seed heads are not a cause for alarm, understanding their appearance and what they signify can help you provide better care for your lawn. Keep your Bermuda grass healthy and vibrant with regular maintenance and timely interventions.

​For expert lawn care services in Caddo Mills, TX, trust Mahalic and Sons. Contact us today for a lush, beautiful, and healthy lawn!