Summer is a challenging season for gardeners, especially when temperatures soar. Annuals & newly planted perennials, shrubs, & trees are particularly vulnerable to heat stress. However, with a few strategic steps, you can help your garden withstand the heat and continue to flourish. Here are some essential tips to beat the heat and keep your plants healthy all summer long.
Watering Wisely
Deep Watering: Instead of shallow watering, opt for deep watering sessions. This encourages plants to develop deeper root systems, making them more resilient to heat and drought. For newly planted perennials, shrubs, & trees we recommend extra watering frequency during a heat wave.
Morning Watering: Water your plants early in the morning. This allows the soil to absorb the moisture before the day heats up, reducing evaporation and giving plants the hydration they need to withstand the day’s heat. Supplements can also be added to help water retention. Products for the lawn are also something to consider when maintaining your green space.
Drip Irrigation and Soaker Hoses: These methods deliver water directly to the plant roots, minimizing water loss through evaporation and ensuring efficient water use.
Mulching
Retain Moisture: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (like straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves) around your plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce water evaporation.
Weed Control: Mulch also suppresses weed growth, which can compete with your plants for water and nutrients, especially during hot weather.
Shade Protection
Temporary Shade: Use shade cloth, umbrellas, or even an old bed sheet to provide temporary shade for your plants during the hottest part of the day. This is particularly useful for newly planted perennials, shrubs, and trees that haven’t yet established strong root systems.
Strategic Planting: Plant taller plants or install trellises to provide shade for more delicate plants. Grouping plants with similar light and water needs can also create microclimates that protect against extreme heat.
Soil Health
Organic Matter: Incorporate organic matter such as compost into your soil. Healthy soil retains moisture better and provides essential nutrients that help plants withstand stress.
Soil Moisture Retention: Consider adding soil amendments like water-retaining crystals or hydrogels that can help retain moisture in the soil, reducing the frequency of watering.
Choosing Heat-Tolerant Plants
Perennials, Shrubs, and Trees: Opt for heat-tolerant varieties when planting perennials, shrubs, and trees. Some excellent choices include coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, lavender, and sedum for perennials; crepe myrtle, boxwood, and juniper for shrubs; and oak, pine, and desert willow for trees.
Annuals: For annuals, select varieties known for their heat tolerance, such as lantana, angelonia, marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, and vinca.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular Checks: Keep an eye on your plants for signs of heat stress, such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or scorched edges. Address issues promptly by adjusting watering schedules or providing additional shade.
Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged foliage to reduce stress on the plant and improve air circulation. This can help plants focus their energy on healthy growth.
Feeding: Provide a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support plant health. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers during extreme heat, as they can promote lush growth that is more susceptible to heat stress.
Beating the heat requires a combination of thoughtful watering practices, soil management, strategic planting, and choosing the right plant varieties. By taking these steps, you can help your newly planted perennials, shrubs, trees, and annuals not only survive but thrive during the hottest months of the year. Happy gardening!
Feel free to adapt these tips to suit your specific garden and climate. If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out to our Green Team!