By Bob Hatton
By Bob Hatton
| Special to the Amarillo Globe-News
| Special to the Amarillo Globe-News
Just a few years ago we had a summer with no days equal to or over 100°. This summer I have already lost count of the days that were 100° or warmer. And the nights don’t seem to get as cold as they did when I was growing up and visiting when our parents were still alive.
The most ardent gardeners slow down in the summer heat. If they have been diligent, their gardens are in good enough shape to relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. But these persistent, oppressive, hot days build up and trap heat in everything from the ground up. This is not the time to neglect anything, as there is little margin of forgiveness at this time of year when a plant needs tending.
Check automatic sprinklers to make sure they are working properly and that the individual heads are aligned and working properly. Adjust the timing for each zone as needed to provide the right amount of water for the conditions. Pay attention to other good lawn care practices, such as mowing high. Accept lawns that are not always deep green. They look better when the temperatures cool down.
Check mulch. Well mulched gardens perform better with less water, are easier to maintain, and in my opinion, look better. There is an abundance of mulch in urban chippings that is free to take. There are many different types for sale. It insulates plant roots from heat, holds moisture longer, and protects roots from the winter cold.
Use fertilizers sparingly, if at all. Plants under stress cannot use fertilizers as effectively. Vegetable gardens and potted plants are exceptions, but these should only be fed lightly until the weather cools. More fertilizer and more water are not the answer to high temperatures. Just like gardeners, plants do not like to be pushed into the heat.
Containers need more attention to watering, because their potting soil drains quickly and does not retain moisture as well as garden soil. Smaller pots need more attention than larger ones. In these conditions, they all need watering more than once a day.
Be aware of pest problems. Spider mites, which are not spiders or insects, particularly like hot, dry weather. There are also diseases that thrive in hot weather, especially if you water poorly. Occasional watering late in the day or at night will not cause a problem. Repeated poor growing practices will.
If you don’t like dead flowers, cut them off early with stems and put them in vases to enjoy at home. If you are cutting flowers for display, do so in the morning when it is cooler and the plants are well hydrated. An easy flower preservative that I use to extend the life of flowers is one teaspoon each of bleach, sugar, and vinegar in one gallon of water. I make and store this in a labeled gallon milk jug.
Make sure your landscape is best prepared to withstand the extreme heat of summer.
The post Garden Guy Column: Dealing with Summer first appeared on Frugals ca.
