We’re nearly at mid-May, and if you’re like most people in Austin, you’ve already felt the shift — summer’s knocking.
This week, we’re keeping an eye on the weather, rain totals, and a few favorite plants that are showing off right now.
Rain Recap & Watershed Wisdom
Last week brought some much-needed rain to Central Texas. While not everyone got a full soak, the most important news is this: the west side of the watershed — the region that feeds into Lake Travis and the rest of the LCRA reservoir system — picked up some solid rain, including a 3-inch bullseye near the lake. That’s big.
Remember: when it comes to long-term water supply, we don’t just need rain on Austin. We need it west of us, upstream, where it can replenish the lakes that feed our city.
Scorcher Incoming
Midweek temps are heading into the triple digits. If your irrigation system isn’t set and checked, now’s the time. Walk your yard. Look for dry spots, pooling water, or broken heads. Turn on the system manually and make sure every zone is running properly. Don’t wait until your yard is stressed to realize something’s wrong — heat damage is hard to reverse.
Need a checklist? Here’s our DIY irrigation inspection guide.
A Few Plants That Caught Our Eye This Week
1. Engelmann Prickly Pear (Cactus):
Spotted at our office — tiny but mighty. Native, resilient, and tough. These cactus pads pop up everywhere, even in cracks and rock outcroppings. They’re worth admiring (just not stepping on).
2. Canna Lily (a tropical show-off):
A neighbor’s canna lily has already exploded in size — from just a few inches in February to lush, broad leaves now. It’ll need water to keep thriving, but once established, it’s surprisingly hardy. Hummingbirds love it. And yes, you can divide it with a shovel and replant the pieces.
3. Crape Myrtle Buds are Back:
Spotted the first crape myrtle blooms of the season. That means we’re about to get color across Austin — whites, pinks, reds, and purples. They’ll bloom through summer and into early fall. Just a reminder: if you’re planting now, double-check the bloom color. You don’t want a patchwork of random colors unless that’s your vibe.
Tip of the Week: We’re officially in “get ahead of the heat” mode. Water deeply. Inspect your irrigation. And keep your eyes on the crape myrtles — they’re about to put on a show.
Got a question? We’re happy to help.
— The Top Choice Lawn Care Team