Sweltering summer heat takes a toll on all kinds of creatures. While as humans, all of us are lucky to escape it with air-conditioned rooms, it is not the same with plants. Not all plants can survive the scorching heat in the gardens, balconies and other outdoor spaces. So, how to keep them green and protected from the summer stress? Here’s a short guide for you.
Deeper Seeding
If you live in a place with relatively warmer temperatures year-round, then seed a little deeper into the soil for plant protection. Places that experience high temperatures often have a dry top-soil which eventually dehydrates the plant in extreme summers. Sowing a seed an inch or two deeper will provide ground moisture to the roots and prevent them from drying up in the heat.
Early Morning & Evening Drizzles
During summers, watering the plant at the right time is very important to avoid quick evaporation. If you drizzle your plants early in the morning and late afternoon or evening, water retention will be relatively good. You can also sprinkle water during the day when you feel that plants are getting dry. Also, consider the water habits of each plant before doing so.
Shading
Another great idea to prevent heat damage and protect the plants is to cover the plant with a light cloth. Choose a cloth that is breathable and light in weight to provide shade to the plants. You can also go for a parasol in the case of a garden corner.
Mulching
Retain the moisture in the soil with mulch. Organic material will help your plants to conserve moisture during extreme summers, improve soil fertility, root conditions and overall growth of the plant. You can find everything you need to make good mulch without much effort. Use newspapers, seaweed, straw, grass clippings, wood shreds etc. for mulching your plants.
Cover your Clay Pots
If you’ve planted your greens in clay pots, then the best option to keep them cool is wrapping a wet cloth around the pot. While you’ve watered your plant sufficiently, cover the pot with a wet cloth that will keep the surface of the pot and soil cool.
Prevent Evaporation with Stones & More
Keeping small pebbles on the top layer of the soil is an easy way to prevent quick evaporation. Other than that, clear off the unwanted weed at least twice a week. Weed absorbs all the moisture, making the plants go dry. So, consider clearing them off timely. Avoid pruning the plants during summers. Re-potting them is a strict NO. Understand that your plants are adjusting to the high temperature and any other stress can hamper their growth.
