You may think summer is the perfect time to garden. There is plenty of sun for your gardened beauties to soak up. Although, did you know summer can actually be worse than winter when gardening? Plants can actually burn in extreme temperatures. Keep your garden growing during the hot summer months with these tips from Abundant Mini Gardens.
Choose the Right Plants
Hot weather calls for plants that like heat. Think of plants that grow in dry areas, southern states, or tropical climates. Tomatoes are a great summer vegetable option, as well as peppers, okra, and even sweet potatoes. Be sure to check labels for plants that may have been bred to withstand temperatures over 90 degrees.
Provide Enough Water
Have you ever heard about watering plants deeply? This may not sound familiar. Watering plants daily during hot temperatures is a good idea, but you should also water plants deeply. This means to water enough that it soaks at least six inches down into the soil. This should be done once or twice a week depending on the type of soil. Set a watering schedule so your garden doesn’t dry out too much between waterings, too.
Have Proper Soil
Organic matter is important in the soil to help retain water during hot temperatures. Choose a soil with healthy organisms such as mycorrhizal fungi to help fight drought. Add another layer of protection with two to four inches of organic mulch to help regulate the soil temperature.
Make Some Shade
Providing some shade can lower the temperature by 10 degrees or more. You can use a shade cloth, latticework, or even an old sheet. Shade coverage of 30 percent to 40 percent is best, even for tomatoes and other high-heat plants. If you are still figuring out where to put your garden, consider the east side of a building. This will also help to provide some shade.
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Avoid Stone Boarders
Brick, stone pavers, concrete paths, and similar items absorb heat. These materials also release heat gradually after the sun sets causing serious problems for your garden. Opt for materials like organic mulch, grass, or wood beams.
Whether you’ve already started your summer garden or are still in the planning stages, keep these tips in mind.
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