Happy Gardens

It’s been so hot… for so long… it’s hard to be outside. Instinctively we either escape to air-conditioned spaces or seek shade. Plants get hot too, and they have no way of escaping. It is our role to bring some relief to our gardens, and help it survive.  There are a few simple ways that will help your garden survive the extreme temperatures.

1. Mulch your garden. Mulch helps to cool the soil down in the summer and protect from the cold in the winter. It also helps in retaining moisture.
2. Water wisely. Yes, your garden needs your help when temperatures hit high 90’s, and there’s no rain. Even xeriscape gardens need help to maintain beauty. Water early in the morning and spot water in the evening if necessary.
3. Foliar feeding makes for stronger plants. Foliar feeding is a great and easy way to add nutrients to your garden and help the plants beat the heat.  It’s like a drink of a freshly squeezed lemonade with delicious honey on a hot day. It’s refreshing and energizing.
4. Shade is a nature’s hat. Use it when you can. If you have potted plants, move them to a shady location, preferably one that will get morning sun and protect the plants from the scorching evening sun.
5. Deadhead and trim. It’s hard to look pretty all the time. Your plants need your help to keep that fresh look. Deadheading encourages new blooms, and both trimming and deadheading make the plants look neater.

Happy Gardening!