It’s August, meaning there’ll be many more hot and sultry afternoons to come. That’s not much of a problem for us thanks to air conditioning and swimming pools, but what about the beautiful lawn and garden in your backyard?
Landscaping crews keep properties manicured and tidy, and yards look immaculate when they leave. In many cases, however, it’s up to the homeowner to care for plants until the following week when the pros return—and summer temperatures can be brutal and take their toll on greenery during the interim.
With the right care, your garden can thrive, even in the hottest conditions. Below are six easy tips from Down to Earth Living garden center in nearby Pomona, N.Y.,—with additional advice from Bruce Rohsler at Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery in Allendale—to make sure your plants stay healthy during a heat wave:
Water wisely
The best time to water plants is in the early morning, advises Down to Earth Living. This allows them to absorb moisture before the day’s heat intensifies. Deep watering is essential: Be sure water penetrates the soil so it reaches the roots. Avoid watering in the evening, as it can lead to fungal growth.
“Be careful to not to overwater certain plants that exhibit heat stress, such as hydrangeas and ligularia,” adds Rohsler. “These plants may appear to be wilting even though they have been adequately watered.”
Mulch for moisture
Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help soil retain moisture and help roots stay cool. Organic mulch, such as straw, wood chips or shredded leaves, is particularly effective. Mulch also helps suppress weeds, which can compete with your plants for water.
Avoid fertilizing
Fertilizers can encourage new growth, which requires additional water and can stress plants further. It’s best to wait until temperatures cool down to resume fertilizing. In addition, Rohsler notes pesticides can further stress already weakened plants. “The plant needs all its energy to cope with the harsh conditions,” he says.
Prune with caution
Heavy pruning can cause stress in plants and expose them to more sunlight, increasing water loss, according to Down to Earth Living. If necessary, remove only dead or damaged parts of the plant to maintain its health.
Watch containers closely
Check container plants twice a day, as they can dry out quickly in the heat. Water as needed, and consider moving them to a shadier spot if possible. Grouping pots together can create a microenvironment that retains moisture.
Monitor and adjust
During a heat wave, look for signs of stress, such as wilting, yellowing leaves or crispy edges. Adjust your care routine as needed to keep your plants healthy.
Adds Rohsler: “If you have fruit or vegetable plants nearing maturity, consider picking them before the heat wave hits to prevent spoilage.”
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