Landscape Maintenance Checklist for Hawaiʻi Homeowners

Maintaining a healthy, beautiful landscape in Hawaiʻi isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about protecting your investment and supporting the health of your plants year-round. With the islands’ unique climate, lush growth, and occasional heavy rains, a tailored maintenance plan is essential for keeping your yard looking its best.

At Hawaiʻi Landscape Services, we’ve put together a practical landscape maintenance checklist designed specifically for local homeowners. Whether you prefer to DIY or hire a professional team, this seasonal and monthly guide will help ensure your outdoor space thrives from mauka to makai.

 Year-Round Essentials (Monthly Tasks)

These tasks should be performed regularly throughout the year, regardless of the season:

✅ Lawn Mowing & Edging

• Mow weekly or bi-weekly, depending on growth rate.
• Maintain grass at the optimal height for your turf type (e.g., 1–2 inches for seashore paspalum).

✅ Weeding

• Hand-pull or spot-treat invasive weeds before they spread.
• Apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent seed germination if needed.

✅ Irrigation System Check

• Inspect sprinklers and drip lines for leaks or clogs.
• Adjust watering times based on rainfall and plant needs.
• Clean filters and replace worn parts as needed.

✅ Pest & Disease Monitoring

• Look for signs of pests (e.g., chewed leaves, discoloration, mildew).
• Apply eco-friendly pest control when needed.
• Watch for fungal issues during humid or rainy weeks.

✅ General Cleanup

• Remove fallen leaves, seed pods, or dead branches.
• Clear debris from storm drains, gutters, and pathways.

🌞 Spring (March–May)

Spring in Hawaiʻi marks a time of rapid growth. Use this season to prepare your landscape for summer heat.

• Trim and shape trees and shrubs before active growth.
• Apply balanced fertilizer to turf and ornamental plants.
• Divide or replant overgrown perennials (e.g., ti, liriope).
• Refresh mulch around garden beds to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Inspect for ants, aphids, and scale insects, especially on plumeria and hibiscus.

☀️ Summer (June–August)

Hawaiian summers can be dry in many regions. Focus on hydration and sun protection.

• Increase watering frequency if there’s little rainfall.
• Adjust mowing height slightly higher to reduce heat stress on lawns.
• Prune flowering shrubs after blooming to encourage shape and health.
• Check palms and tropicals for fronds in need of removal or pests like mites.
• Add shade cloth to protect delicate plants during extreme sun exposure.

🍂 Fall (September–November)

Fall is the perfect time for preparing your landscape for seasonal transitions and new plantings.

• Aerate the lawn to relieve compaction and boost root development.
• Plant new trees or shrubs while soil temps are still warm.
• Fertilize one last time before winter to support healthy root systems.
• Thin or prune dense growth to improve air circulation.
• Inspect for slugs, snails, and fungal spores during rainy periods.

🌧️ Winter (December–February)

While Hawaiʻi’s winters are mild, there’s typically more rainfall and slower growth.

• Reduce watering frequency during rainy weeks.
• Clean and service equipment such as lawnmowers and trimmers.
• Cut back tropical perennials to promote spring regrowth.
• Rake and remove debris to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
• Apply slow-release fertilizer to prepare plants for spring.

🌿 Bonus Tips for Hawaiian Homeowners

• Use native plants: They’re adapted to the climate, drought-resistant, and low-maintenance.
• Create microclimates: Use taller plants to shelter smaller ones from sun and wind.
• Rotate fertilizers: Alternate between organic and synthetic to support soil health.
• Compost your green waste: It’s sustainable and great for your garden beds.

🛠️ Need Professional Help? We’re Here for You

Keeping your landscape healthy and beautiful in Hawaiʻi requires consistent attention and regional expertise. Whether you need monthly maintenance, irrigation tuning, or full seasonal care, Hawaiʻi Landscape Services is here to make it easy.

Contact us today to schedule a property visit or discuss a custom maintenance plan tailored to your home’s needs.