7 Useful Summer Gardening Tips
Summer can be punishingly hot for most gardens. It brings with it some challenges that any gardener should be prepared to counter. You’ll be glad to know that there are things you can do to keep your garden in very good condition so you can fully enjoy it throughout the summer season.
1. Schedule when to water your plants.
The sun can quickly dry up any water that you give your plants so it is a wise move if you do your watering in the early morning or when the sun is about to set. This way the water will not quickly evaporate and it will give both your plants and the soil to absorb all the H20 that it needs.
You should also add mulch to hold the moisture for as long as possible. It will also help keep the base of your plants cool. Just make sure you don’t add a very thick layer of mulch as it may prevent the water from soaking in.
2. Focus on the front of your lawn.
Just in case conserving water is one of your main priorities this season, then what you can do is to focus on the front part of your lawn when it comes to watering your garden. It’s because this is the area that adds more appeal or value to your garden so keeping the plants in this location in good shape should be your first concern.
3. Keep your potted plants cool.
Pots can easily heat up during summer, especially those made of terracotta. To help keep them cool, position them away from direct sunlight by either keeping them under a roof or in the shade. You can also add mulch so that when you water them, the mulch will keep the moisture and maintain a cooler temperature for your plants.
4. Work only when it’s cool.
Just to be on the safe side, avoid working in your garden when the temperature outside is almost unbearable. But if you must then wear some protective clothing, especially a wide brimmed hat or at least try to work in the shade. You should also put on sunblock if you don’t want to get sunburned or even worst, skin cancer. Another thing you can do is to always have a cool, refreshing drink by your side wherever in the garden you may be. After all, it ’s not just your plants that need some hydration.
You should also schedule your garden work because it is just not possible to do everything in one day. This will also keep you from working long hours under the sun and risk dehydration or even a sunstroke.
5. Add nutrients to the water you use.
The next time you boil some vegetables, don’t just throw away the water. Instead you can use it to water your plants and the nutrients that came from the vegetables will help nourish your greens. Of course you can always use an organic fertilizer or a store bought variety.
6. Always use cool water.
It’s already hot outside so do not add more stress to your plants by using hot water on them. Always check the temperature of the water coming out of your faucet or hose just to ensure it is not too hot for your plants. One tip is to not let your hose get all coiled up while it’s full of water and out in the sun. This can really heat up the water inside and when it comes time to water your plants, the water will just be too hot.
7. Improve your gardening knowledge.
Join a gardening club or buy a book about the subject or read a gardening and landscaping blog so you can further enhance your knowledge. Your continuous study of all things about gardening will help you keep your garden, and your plants especially, in tip-top condition.
Now help your garden beat the heat!
While it's true that the summer heat is unavoidable, there's plenty of ways to prevent your garden from being scorched by it and keep your plants lush and healthy all season long! It's nothing a little preparation can't handle, really, so follow these tips and you'll find yourself enjoying the wonders of your summer garden in no time.
