It's Way Too Hot!

Plants don’t like 100 degree and above temperatures any better than we do.

What to do?

Many cities institute a restricted watering policy for landscapes so lawns and gardens may not receive the moisture needed for that lush look.

Grasses may wither and look dead but their roots are merely resting and will usually green up when the weather cools in September. A mower set to a high setting will help protect the grass roots.

Many perennials and annuals may finish they’re blooming season and set seed early. Deadheading, removing spent blossoms, will keep them from using energy to set seed. The plants will then be encouraged to grow and flower. Mulching flower and vegetable gardens also helps to retain moisture and protect roots from drying out.

Even established trees and shrubs will need an extra portion of that coveted water application. Incorporating a drip irrigation system uses much less water than overhead methods of watering and reduces charges on your water bill as well.

While helping to establish school gardens in villages in Uganda, an Agronomist I worked with covered recently transplanted tomatoes, squash and other vegetables with sticks, dried grasses, and even small branches. It was my inclination to expose the plants but he illustrated the concept of protection for the plants to me.

The effect was that of row covers. I was familiar with that. The intensity of the sun’s rays was diffused and shaded plants could retain the moisture content necessary for sustained growth.

Ingenious!

He also trenched shallow ditches between the raised rows of plants so when it rained the roots of the plants could readily access the water.

The excitement of watching the children harvest the rewards of their labor was exhilarating.

I learned much from this method of gardening and look forward to studying other culture’s gardening technique.

What I thought was the only way to garden has been replaced with the understanding that for eons people have been adjusting to weather conditions to plant, tend, and harvest food.

Gardening Questions can be referred to the WSU Master Gardeners at (509)477-2181 or email [email protected]