There’s no mistaking it—summer is here on the Gulf Coast. With high humidity, intense heat, and relentless mosquitoes, it’s a season that puts stress on everyone… including your plants. At The Arbor Gate, we believe that summer gardening doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a few natural tools and expert tips, you can help your garden (and yourself) thrive all season long.

Natural Mosquito Control

Mosquitoes are more than just annoying—they can ruin your time outdoors and impact your pets’ well-being too. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals to keep them at bay. We recommend:

• Cedar granules and mosquito dunks – Safe for birds and bees, but they stop mosquito larvae in their tracks.

• Garlic Barrier – A powerful, all-natural repellent that’s safe for beneficial insects.

• Repellent incense sticks – Effective within a 20-ft radius, perfect for porches and patios.

Stop Fungus Gnats in Their Tracks

If your houseplants are attracting gnats, try adding cedar granules or expanded shale as a top dressing to your soil. These organic materials prevent gnats from laying eggs, while also improving soil texture and reducing splashing during watering.

Prevent Sunburn and Heat Stress in Plants

Some plants—especially young fruit trees—are prone to sunburn. Protect them with:

• IV Organics spray and paint – These create a natural sunscreen layer on foliage or tree trunks, protecting plants from intense sunlight and heat damage.

• Liquid Seaweed – Acts like electrolytes for plants, helping them bounce back from heat stress and improving overall vigor.

Fight Summer Fungal Issues

Humidity brings on common fungal problems like tomato blight and black spot on roses. Fight back with:

• EM1 Microbial Inoculant – A probiotic for your garden. This living product boosts soil health, thickens leaf surfaces, and outcompetes harmful microbes.

Nature’s Pest Control: Beneficial Insects

Keep pest populations in check naturally by adding beneficial insects to your garden:

• Ladybugs & praying mantises – These voracious predators help balance insect populations.

• Beneficial nematodes – These microscopic helpers live in the soil and take care of everything from fleas to overwintering pests.

Bonus Tip: Be Mindful of Your Water

If you’re using products with live microbes, be sure to avoid chlorinated tap water. Let your hose water sit overnight in buckets or use rainwater to keep those beneficial microbes happy and active.

At The Arbor Gate, we carry all of these garden-safe solutions and more. Whether you’re battling sunburned leaves or pesky mosquitoes, we’re here to help you garden smarter—not harder—this summer.

Come visit us in Tomball, TX and let us help your garden thrive—naturally.