The summer months can be a dry time of year for large portions of the country, and a lack of rain can put a damper on lots of things—the look of your lawn, in particular. Though it’s tempting to install a sprinkler or pick up the hose to keep things green, it can be costly and a drain on resources.

When we think of gardening, we usually think of springtime. When the days heat up, the soil can become drier and less optimal for plant growth. The good news is, there are many ways to keep your garden thriving during the hottest months of the year.