Maintenance Guide
Watering, Fertilization & Seasonal Adjustments
Efficient Watering Tips
Deep and infrequent watering encourages drought-hardy root systems. Focus water at the drip line, which is actually where most roots sit—rather than near the trunk.
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Mature trees/shrubs: Water once a week during hot months; if there’s no rain for 4–6 weeks in winter, give a supplemental soak
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Use a soil probe or a long screwdriver to confirm water reach—if it goes through easily into wet soil, you’re hitting the sweet spot
Mulch Smartly
Apply 3–4 inches of mulch—either organic (like shredded bark) or inorganic stone—around the root zone. This reduces evaporation, keeps soil temperature stable, and suppresses weeds. Keep mulch away from plant trunks to prevent rot.
Fertilization
While basic desert-adapted plants often thrive with minimal fertilization, lawns (e.g., Bermuda) benefit from 1 inch of water per week and light fertilization during the growing season. For shrubs and trees, timed applications based on plant type and soil testing can help promote health without waste.
Spring (February–April)
Trim deciduous trees during their dormant phase (Dec–Feb), then shape citrus and flowering species mid-February to avoid frost damage and preserve blooms.
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Deep watering helps flush soil salts.
Summer (May–July)
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Palm trees are best trimmed late spring to early summer, ahead of the monsoon season that runs June–September. This prevents falling fronds and improves safety during storms.
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Irrigation adjustments: Increase frequency, but water deeply and early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Fall to Early Winter (October–December)
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This is the best season for larger pruning and landscape projects—not just to promote growth structure, but also to protect migratory birds and nesting wildlife.
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Perform final trimming of desert-adapted shrubs to shape before cooler weather.
Wildlife & Nesting Awareness
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Avoid trimming during nesting seasons (which can span January through October depending on species). Significant pruning should be postponed until fall/winter.
Seasonal Tips
Staying Ahead Through the Year
Troubleshooting
Common Issues & When to Call DTEC
Irrigation Problems
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Under-watering signs: Dry soil, yellowing or wilting leaves.
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Over-watering signs: Mushrooms, algae, brittle leaves.
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Fixes: Check for clogged drip emitters, make sure irrigation reaches the drip line, adjust frequency based on soil type, and use mulch to retain moisture.
If unsure, a DTEC technician can evaluate and optimize your system—making sure every drop counts.
Plant Pruning Mistakes
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Never remove more than 25–30% of a shrub or tree’s canopy in one year—excessive cuts stress the plant.
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Use proper cutting methods: trim outside the branch collar, avoid stubs, and use a three-cut method for larger branches.
Timing & Technique Missteps
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Avoid trimming in nesting season (spring to summer); if necessary, call DTEC—we can prune safely in fall or winter when landscapes and wildlife are both ready.
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Never top or shear shrubs aggressively—that leads to poor plant health and unnatural regrowth.
Tailored watering guidance
We’ll audit your irrigation system and fine-tune watering amounts, frequency, and delivery zones for efficiency and plant health.
Seasonal pruning plans
We’ll prune at the safest time for plants and wildlife, ensuring proper structural health and your compliance with best practices.
Preventative troubleshooting
Early detection of water stress, disease, or irrigation failure helps avoid expensive damage.
Deep expertise for desert landscapes
We adapt best practices from Arizona Cooperative Extension and local nurseries into real-world solutions for your property.
Convenience and consistency
Let us handle routine care, so you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving landscape without the guesswork.