• Watering Wisdom

• Mulch Magic

• Planting Power

• Beat the Midday Heat

Summer sunshine brings vibrant blooms and bountiful harvests, but scorching temperatures can also stress your precious plants. Fear not, fellow green thumbs! By implementing a few strategic adjustments, your garden can flourish even in the hottest months.

Water is life, especially during a heatwave. Here's how to ensure your plants stay hydrated:

Deep Soaking is Key:

Ditch the daily spray. Instead, water thoroughly 2-3 times a week, reaching deep into the root zone. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making plants more resilient to drought.

Early Bird Gets the Water:

Water in the cool mornings or evenings to minimise evaporation. Avoid mid-day watering, as the sun can scorch leaves. There is some debate over this old wives tale, but it's not worth the risk if you can avoid it. 

Know Your Plants:

Different plants have varying water needs. Sun-loving vegetables like tomatoes and peppers require more frequent watering than shade-tolerant ferns or hostas.

Mulch is your garden's superhero in hot weather. A 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, like wood chips or shredded bark, offers a wealth of benefits:

Moisture Retention:

Mulch acts like a blanket, suppressing soil evaporation and keeping precious moisture locked in.

Temperature Regulation:

Mulch insulates the soil, keeping it cool and preventing scorching.

Weed Suppression:

It discourages pesky weeds that compete with your plants for water and nutrients.

Make smart choices when planting during the summer heat:

Heat-Loving Heroes:

Opt for plants known to thrive in hot weather, like ornamental grasses, lavender, zinnias, and marigolds.

Shade Seekers:

Group heat-sensitive plants together for mutual shade and consider adding shade covers during peak sun hours.

Succession Planting:

Plant cool-season crops like lettuce and spinach in succession for a continuous harvest throughout the summer.

Gardening under the summer sun requires you to stay cool and hydrated as well:

Hydration Hero:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.

Sun Safety Savvy:

Wear protective clothing, including a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves to shield yourself from UV rays.

Schedule Strategically:

Tackle the most demanding gardening tasks during cooler morning or evening hours. Take breaks in shaded areas to avoid overexertion.

Group Plants Wisely:

Strategically position plants to maximise shade. Taller plants can provide shade for heat-sensitive ones.

Container Care:

Container plants dry out faster than those in the ground. Check them daily and water as needed.

Harvest Regularly:

Picking ripe fruits and vegetables encourages continued growth and prevents them from rotting on the vine in the heat.

By following these tips, you can create a thriving summer oasis, no matter how hot it gets. Remember, a little planning and care go a long way in ensuring your garden flourishes throughout the entire season. So, grab your hat, water your plants, and enjoy the beauty of your summer garden!