Long Beach’s year-round mild climate encourages plant growth, making lawn care and landscaping a year-round job.

Learn how to help your outdoor space a stunning, water-wise retreat with our landscaping guide designed specifically for Long Beach lawns.

Spring

• Lawn Care: Mow your lawn routinely starting around April or when the grass reaches over 3 inches.
• Irrigation: Install or activate water-efficient sprinkler systems before the summer dry season.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer for healthy, new growth
• Planting: Plant drought-tolerant and native California plants adapted to coastal landscapes.
• Mulching: To keep moisture in and common California weeds out, apply a new layer of mulch.
• Shrub Pruning: Shape shrubs and trees to promote healthy growth and maintain shape.
• Fencing: Inspect and repair fences for winter damage or install a new one.
• Landscape lighting: Install or update outdoor lighting to make your space more accessible.
• Hardscaping: Invest in landscaping improvements like patios, decks, stamped concrete, or paver walkways.

Summer

• Lawn Care: Mow grass regularly at a slightly higher setting to conserve water and protect roots.
• Pruning: Keep shrubs in shape with light trimming and removing dead growth.
• Reseed: Bare spots can be overseeded if needed.
• Irrigation: Water deeply but infrequently, and follow Long Beach’s water use restrictions.
• Hardscapes: Watch for wear and tear on your hardscapes, and consider adding a pergola for those hot summer days.
• Landscape lighting: String some extra lights for evenings in the cooler night air.
• Fencing: Keep your fence in good shape with regular care and apply a sealant or paint.

Fall

• Lawn Care: Continue regular mowing until growth slows around November
• Leaf Cleanup: To avoid lawn disease, remove leaf debris yourself or hire a local leaf removal crew.
• Planting: Take advantage of mild winters and plant winter annuals, spring bulbs, or a cool-season vegetable garden.
• Irrigation: Adjust the watering schedule as night temps drop and winterize your system before the average frost date of December 15. 
• Mulch: Protect your garden bed plants with fresh mulch, if needed.
• Fencing: Finish fencing projects before wet weather rolls in.
• Hardscaping: Enjoy beautiful Long Beach nights with a fire pit and friends.
• Landscape Lighting: With earlier sunsets, ensure you have working outdoor or security lighting.

Winter

• Lawn care: Mow only as needed as grass growth slows.
• Planting: Add a few citrus or avocado trees and native or Mediterranean plants.
• Pruning: Trim deciduous shrubs, trees, and roses when dormant.
• Planning: Design and budget your next landscaping project like xeriscaping or an outdoor kitchen.

Expert solutions are at your fingertips with LawnStarter’s local Long Beach landscaping pros. Discover how to transform your yard into a beautiful, water-wise haven.