Gardening: The ultimate experiment

As to my experiment with permaculture: I had reported that the corn seed I planted in the midst of my weeds was more robust than the ones I planted in rows.

Sadly, my theory has been dispelled. Now the corn in rows have overtaken the growth of their wilderness relative.

The squash plant is faring well, however, the deer ate the beans that were planted.

After a little more research, I learned corn needs to have neighbors, as those luscious ears are pollinated from the tassels of other corn plants by the wind.

Those mid-western corn farmers do know what they are doing.

I haven’t given up on this concept of soil recovery. Maybe corn growing is the exception.

It seemed our gardens were in super grow mode and now another round of high temperatures is likely to “cool their jets.” Don’t be too hard on them.

We still have weeks of Summer to count on for ample harvests. The addition of shade can lower the temperature on the plants and encourage better fruit production.

Everything is thirsty during this period of extended drought and 90 plus degree days. The lawn, bless it’s hardy roots, will recover.

Trees and shrubs are more vulnerable and need extra water. Consider long deep watering at least once or twice a week as opposed to frequent sprinklings.

Applying mulch or compost to your perennials may help them survive with minimal stress.

I usually begin to divide some of my perennials this month. But because of dry, hot air, I plan to hold off on that activity until we get some rain. Or at least a hint of it.

The weather conditions don’t have to keep me from digging my holes for my future transplants and removing the weeds which don’t seem to be affected by the heat. I think they actually enjoy it.

Birds are looking for a drink too. It is important to offer fresh water to the birds that visit your garden. They in turn eat many of the harmful insects that find your veggies delectable.

If your birdbaths or hummingbird feeders are looking cloudy it is probably time to clean them thoroughly before filling them.

Dirty feeders can harbor diseases and viruses detrimental to the birds. A solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water will usually suffice.

Many annuals that we stuffed in our baskets in June are no longer looking spectacular. In fact, they look terrible.

By trimming the leggy, scraggly petunias, alyssum, verbena and geraniums now, the plants will regenerate growth and offer beauty once again in September.

An application of fertilizer, and be sure to follow recommended dosages, will give you rplants a much needed boost.

Our garden efforts this week should be in the early morning, and the rest of the day can be enjoyed with a cold glass of lemonade, reflecting what we can do differently next year.

Margaret Swenson is a Spokane Master Gardener. More information can be found by calling 509-477-2181.