Category: Outdoor Living

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Blog Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle Outdoor Living TX

Gardening 101: Easy Plants to Plant This August

August in Kyle means long, sunny days and plenty of warmth—perfect for giving your garden a late-summer boost. Whether you have a spacious backyard in Crosswinds or a cozy patio container, August is the ideal time to add fresh color, flavor, and texture to your green space. Read on for the simplest, most heat-tolerant plants to try this month, plus tips on choosing the best spot and caring for your new growth.

Top Easy Plants to Grow

Herbs

Basil and oregano love Texas heat and reward you with fragrant leaves all season long. Plant basil in well-draining soil and pinch off flower buds to keep leaves lush. Oregano practically thrives on low-maintenance. Give it full sun and a light watering only once a week!

Veggies

Cherry tomatoes and okra are summer superstars. Cherry tomato varieties like ‘Sungold’ ripen quickly in August’s heat, while okra tolerates high temperatures and even improves in flavor after a little drought stress. Both need at least six hours of direct sun and consistent watering at the base.

Flowers & Pollinator Plants

Marigolds and zinnias not only brighten your garden but also attract bees and butterflies. Marigolds fend off pests naturally, and “State Fair” zinnias produce endless blooms with minimal fuss. Sow seeds directly in sunny beds and water deeply once or twice a week.

Succulents

Sedum and agave are perfect for rock gardens or container displays. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ forms low mats of thick leaves, while small agave varieties add architectural interest. Both require sandy, well-drained soil and can survive on rainfall once established.

Full-Sun Plants

Lantana and Mexican heather (cuphea) stand up to the blazing afternoon sun and reward you with waves of color. Lantana’s clusters of orange, yellow, or lavender blooms last for months, and cuphea’s purple blossoms keep hummingbirds happy. Plant these in your hottest beds, and they’ll thrive on a once-weekly deep soak.

Picking the Perfect Spot

August’s intense sun means location matters. Most heat-loving plants need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight, so look for south- or west-facing beds. If you’re working with containers, place pots on your sunniest patio or deck, but consider moving them midday into light afternoon shade (for example, under a pergola or tree canopy) to prevent leaf scorch. Good drainage is critical: raised beds or pots with drainage holes help roots stay healthy in the heat.

Planting & Care Tips

  1. Soil Prep: Mix in aged compost or a slow-release organic fertilizer before planting to give roots a nutrient boost.
  2. Watering Routine: Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation. Aim for a deep soak about one inch per week, rather than frequent light sprinkles that encourage shallow roots.
  3. Mulch Magic: Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of straw, shredded bark, or pine needles around your plants. Mulch keeps soil cooler, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds.
  4. Pinch & Prune: For herbs and flowers, pinch back the tips regularly to encourage bushier growth and extend the bloom period. Remove spent blooms (“deadheading”) on marigolds and zinnias to keep them flowering through fall.
  5. Monitor Pests: Heat-stressed plants can attract aphids and spider mites. Check the undersides of leaves weekly; spray with a gentle stream of water or neem oil if you spot early infestations.

Happy Planting, Crosswinds!

With just a few easy-care choices, your Crosswinds garden can stay vibrant and productive well into the fall. Whether you’re snipping fresh basil for salsa, picking a handful of cherry tomatoes for snacks, or simply enjoying a burst of zinnia blossoms by your front door, August planting is all about simple successes in the Texas sun.

Ready to dig in? If you’re thinking about planting roots, literally and figuratively, at Crosswinds, we’d love to help you find your dream home here. Visit our Contact Us page to learn more, schedule a tour, or get in touch with our friendly team today!

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Blog Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle Outdoor Living TX

The Best Summer Reads for Relaxing on the Porch or Patio

When the sun settles into a golden haze and a gentle breeze rustles through the oaks of Crosswinds, there’s nothing more inviting than slipping onto your porch or patio with a good book in hand. Whether you prefer the soft thump of pages turning or the faint hum of cicadas in the background, summer reading outdoors is a ritual that combines fresh air with fresh stories—and it’s an essential part of the season here in Kyle.

Why Porch & Patio Reading Is a Summer Essential

There’s something undeniably restorative about stepping outside and leaving screens behind. Natural light and open skies help your eyes relax, while birdsong and rustling leaves provide a tranquil soundtrack for whatever world you’re about to enter. Reading on a porch or patio turns ordinary downtime into a mini-vacation: you’re still at home, but somehow it feels more special. Plus, with every chapter you finish, you’ll get to stretch your legs, savor a sip of iced tea, and breathe in the scent of summer blooms.

Top Picks for Your Summer Reading List

To help you choose your next page-turner, we’ve rounded up four categories—each with two standout titles that promise to whisk you away.

Beach-y Escapes

“Beach Read” by Emily Henry follows two writers with opposing styles who swap genres for the summer, discovering love and laughter along the way. Meanwhile, Emma Straub’s “The Vacationers” centers on a family reunion in Mallorca, where long-buried secrets surface between sun-splashed brunches and poolside gossip.

Lighthearted Romances

If you’re craving a swoony, laugh-out-loud storyline, “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren delivers. Enemies-to-lovers hijinks abound when Olive agrees to take her nemesis’s spot on a free honeymoon. For a charming twist on modern courtship, “The Flatshare” by Beth O’Leary spins the tale of two strangers sharing a London apartment—never at the same time—who fall in love through cleverly posted notes.

Page-Turning Thrillers

When the sun dips low and you crave a little suspense, “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides will keep you guessing until the final page. For psychological chills, A. J. Finn’s “The Woman in the Window” traps you in an agoraphobic heroine’s world, where every creak in the house could herald danger.

Uplifting Nonfiction

Sometimes you want a real-life adventure. In “Educated,” Tara Westover recounts her journey from a remote Idaho upbringing to earning a PhD at Cambridge—proof that knowledge can reshape your destiny. Michelle Obama’s “Becoming” offers intimate reflections on identity, purpose, and the challenges of public life, all told with warmth and wit.

Crafting the Ultimate Outdoor Reading Nook

A great book deserves a great spot. Start with seating that feels like a gentle hug: plump Adirondack chairs, a cushioned wicker loveseat, or a hanging daybed draped with a soft throw. Overhead, install a broad umbrella or string up café lights to cast a warm glow once dusk arrives. A small side table keeps iced tea, lemonade, or a cooling spritz within arm’s reach, while a basket of extra pillows and a lightweight blanket invite you to linger long after the sun goes down. Consider adding a potted lavender or jasmine plant nearby for a whisper of fragrance that pairs perfectly with each chapter.

Making It Your Own

Personal touches turn any porch or patio into a comforting retreat. Draping a lightweight rug beneath your chair defines “your spot” and keeps bare feet from touching hot decking. A portable Bluetooth speaker set to a low volume can fill the air with acoustic melodies or nature sounds. If little ones need to join the fun, set out washable markers, a sketchpad, and a few picture books so they feel included without spoiling your quiet escape.

Happy Reading!

This summer, let every porch and patio in Crosswinds become a portal to new adventures. Whether you’re chasing sun-drenched romances, heart-racing mysteries, or stories grounded in real life, fresh air and good company make every page more vivid. Once you’ve finished a favorite, share your recommendation in the Crosswinds community group—there’s nothing better than swapping book tips with neighbors who feel like friends. Here’s to the perfect read cradled in sunshine, the promise of one more chapter, and the simple joy of summer days spent lost in a story.

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Blog Homeowner Tips Lifestyle Outdoor Living Tips

Revamp Your Outdoor Space: Landscaping Ideas to Welcome Warmer Weather

 

Spring has arrived, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your outdoor space! As the weather warms up, you’ll likely be spending more time outside, whether it’s in your backyard, on your patio, or enjoying the green spaces around your home in Crosswinds. A fresh and inviting landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also creates a relaxing retreat for you and your family to enjoy. If you’re ready to give your outdoor space a seasonal refresh, here are some simple and effective ways to spruce things up for spring and summer.

1. Clean Up & Declutter Your Yard

Before diving into new projects, start by tidying up your outdoor space. Winter can leave behind fallen leaves, broken branches, and other debris that make your yard look untidy.

To-Do List:

  • Rake up leaves and twigs.
  • Trim back overgrown bushes and trees.
  • Remove any weeds from garden beds and pathways.
  • Clean off patios, decks, and outdoor furniture.

A clean slate will make it easier to plan and implement fresh landscaping ideas!

2. Refresh Your Lawn

A lush, green lawn sets the tone for a beautiful outdoor space. After winter, your grass may need a little TLC to bring it back to life.

Lawn Care Tips:

  • Aerate the soil to help water and nutrients reach the roots.
  • Reseed any bare patches and apply fertilizer.
  • Mow regularly but avoid cutting grass too short to maintain healthy growth.
  • Water deeply and consistently, especially in warmer months.

A well-maintained lawn is the foundation of a great outdoor space!

3. Plant Seasonal Flowers & Greenery

Adding vibrant flowers and fresh greenery is a simple way to enhance the beauty of your yard. Choose plants that thrive in the Texas heat to keep your garden looking great all season long.

Best Spring & Summer Plants for Texas:

  • Colorful Flowers: Lantana, petunias, marigolds, and zinnias.
  • Drought-Resistant Plants: Succulents, agave, and yucca.
  • Shade-Providing Trees: Crepe myrtles and live oaks.
  • Herbs & Veggies: Basil, rosemary, tomatoes, and peppers.

A mix of flowers, shrubs, and edible plants will make your outdoor space both beautiful and functional.

4. Update Outdoor Furniture & Decor

Your outdoor space should feel just as inviting as the inside of your home. Freshening up your patio or backyard with new furniture and decor can make a huge difference.

Easy Upgrades:

  • Clean or repaint outdoor furniture for a fresh look.
  • Add new cushions and outdoor rugs in bright, summery colors.
  • String up fairy lights or lanterns for cozy evening ambiance.
  • Incorporate decorative planters, bird feeders, or wind chimes for extra charm.

Small changes can make your space feel brand new!

5. Mulch & Redefine Garden Beds

A fresh layer of mulch not only enhances the look of your garden but also helps retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Steps to Refresh Your Garden Beds:

  • Pull out any weeds or dead plants.
  • Edge around the beds to create defined borders.
  • Apply a new layer of mulch (2-3 inches thick) in natural or colored varieties.
  • Arrange plants in layers for a visually appealing effect.

Mulching instantly makes garden beds look polished while keeping plants healthy.

6. Install a Water Feature or Fire Pit

For a major upgrade, consider adding a focal point like a water feature or fire pit to your outdoor space.

Benefits:

  • A water fountain or small pond adds a peaceful, soothing element to your yard.
  • A fire pit creates a cozy gathering space for summer nights and roasting marshmallows.
  • Both features can boost curb appeal and property value!

Choose a feature that suits your space and lifestyle to create a relaxing retreat.

7. Set Up a Functional Outdoor Living Area

Turn your backyard into an extension of your home by creating designated areas for dining, relaxing, and playing.

Ideas to Try:

  • A shaded dining area with an umbrella or pergola.
  • A comfortable lounge space with weatherproof seating.
  • A kid-friendly play area with a sandbox or swing set.
  • A garden nook with benches for reading or unwinding.

A well-planned outdoor space makes it easy to enjoy your home all season long!

8. Add Pathways & Lighting

Pathways and lighting not only improve safety but also enhance the look of your outdoor space.

Simple Enhancements:

  • Use stone, gravel, or stepping stones to create garden paths.
  • Add solar-powered lights along walkways for soft evening illumination.
  • Use LED string lights or lanterns for a warm, inviting glow.

These touches make your yard more accessible and enjoyable after sunset.

Welcome Spring & Summer with a Beautiful Outdoor Space!

There’s no better time than now to freshen up your landscape and create an outdoor space you’ll love spending time in. Whether it’s planting new flowers, updating patio furniture, or adding cozy lighting, these simple improvements will make your home feel refreshed and inviting.

Here at Crosswinds, we love seeing neighbors enjoy their beautiful outdoor spaces, whether it’s in their backyards, on their patios, or in the scenic community parks. So grab your gardening gloves, fire up the grill, and enjoy all that spring and summer have to offer in your revitalized outdoor oasis!