New businesses and residents have flocked to North Carolina over the past five years. Nearly 4.2 million households and businesses changed their postal address to the Tar Heel state. With our beaches and mountains just hours away from anywhere in the state, we think coming here was a good call! As you settle into your new home, here are some landscape tips to help you navigate and make the most of the unique climate and environment in the region:
Understand the Climate: Central North Carolina experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be mindful of the temperature variations and plan your landscape accordingly. Take advantage of the seasonality of North Carolina. Plan for vibrant blooms in spring, the lush growth of summer, the changing foliage in fall, and the dormant period in winter. This understanding allows you to create a landscape that remains visually appealing year-round.
Choose Native Plants: Opt for plants native to the region, as they are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Native plants are often more resilient and require less maintenance and water.
Watering Schedule: Establish a consistent watering schedule for your plants, especially during the hot summer months. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to water to minimize evaporation.
Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to understand the composition of your soil. North Carolina soils can vary from sandy to loamy to clay in short distances. Getting a soil test helps determine the right plant amendments and fertilizers.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Pine straw is a popular choice in the region. Due to North Carolina not having snow-covered winters often, mulching in the winter months is ideal to ensure your beds are ready for a quick onset of spring.
Lawn Care: If you have a lawn, choose warm-season grass varieties like Bermuda or Zoysia for optimal performance. These grasses do not need irrigation as regularly after they are established. Regular mowing and proper fertilization are essential for a healthy lawn.
Dealing with Pests: North Carolina is home to huge deer populations. Deterrents only work for a short period of time typically. The best solution for deer is to plant deer-resistant plants. Yews, inkeberries, and loropetalum are great shrubs that deer seldom bother.
Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any local regulations or guidelines related to landscaping, especially if you have plans for major changes or additions to your outdoor space.
Community Engagement: Connect with local gardening clubs or community groups. They can provide valuable insights into gardening practices specific to the region and may even share plants or tips.
By incorporating these tips into your landscaping endeavors, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and thriving outdoor space in North Carolina. Enjoy your new home and the gardening adventures that come with it!
Getting Your Landscape Right in Central North Carolina
Relocating to North Carolina means adjusting to a humid subtropical climate, varied soil conditions, and distinct seasonal transitions. From hot summers to mild winters, your landscape must be designed to handle temperature swings, clay-heavy soils, and seasonal rainfall patterns common throughout the Triangle.
Successful landscapes in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding communities are built around native or regionally adapted plants, proper soil preparation, smart irrigation planning, and thoughtful mulch application. Understanding these local conditions helps prevent common issues such as root rot, nutrient deficiencies, and deer damage.
Whether you're installing a new lawn, refreshing foundation plantings, or designing a complete outdoor space, working with a team familiar with Central North Carolina’s environmental patterns ensures long-term performance and curb appeal.
👉 Schedule a Landscape Consultation
Serving Homeowners Across the Triangle
If you’re in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill and need expert help with landscaping, hardscaping, or outdoor construction, Myatt Landscaping and Construction is here to help.
From custom patios and retaining walls to full outdoor design-build projects, our local team has served the Triangle area for more than 25 years.
📍 Myatt Landscaping and Construction
217 Technology Park Ln, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
☎ (919) 577-6050
Come Visit Us!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of grass grows best in Central North Carolina?
Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda and Zoysia perform best due to their tolerance of heat and humidity once established.
Why is soil testing important in North Carolina?
Soil conditions vary widely across short distances in the Triangle. Testing ensures proper amendments and fertilizer applications for healthy plant growth.
Are native plants better for new homeowners?
Yes. Native plants are adapted to local rainfall, soil types, and pests, making them more resilient and lower maintenance over time.
How should I handle watering during NC summers?
Water early in the morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation and promote deeper root development.
What mulch works best in this region?
Pine straw is a popular and effective mulch option in North Carolina. It helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prepare beds for spring growth.
How do I manage deer pressure?
Planting deer-resistant shrubs such as loropetalum, yews, and inkeberries is typically more effective than short-term deterrents.