Help Plants in a Heat Wave
When summer temperatures soar during a heat wave, help plants by following these three tips:
- Mulch plants to help retain soil moisture and keep plants cool.
- Don't water during the middle of the day in extreme heat. It not only results in excess water loss due to high evaporation rates, but can stress plants further. Instead, water in advance of hot weather, or right afterward. If you must water, do so at night when temperatures have cooled down.
- Move potted plants into the shade out of the heat of the sun, or cover plants with a sheet or shade netting.
(Published July 31, 2018)