5 TIPS TO BEAT SUMMER HEAT IN YOUR GARDEN

As we transition into summer and the weather begins to warm, many of us will enjoy more outdoor activities in the summer sun, including prepping and tending to our gardens. That’s why it’s important to remember that soaring temperatures and excessive rain can wreak havoc on your lawn and plants.

Here are some things you can do to help keep your garden growing, even in the harshest of summer conditions:

 Spread a Layer of Mulch

A two to three inch layer of organic mulch helps the soil retain moisture and reduces the rate of evaporation. Spread it using a landscape rake (RK 61061) or ComfortGEL® trowel (CT 3314) to help suppress weed growth, which takes up precious water and nutrients from your plants. Natural mulches will also break down over time and introduce new nutrients into the soil. For fewer trips and easier transport, use one of our poly wheelbarrows (WB12166, WB12060, WB12160).

DON’T FORGET: It’s better to mulch out than up! Avoid piling up mulch around the base of the tree and trunk, which can damage your tree by inviting fungus and unwanted pests.

Convert Spray System to Drip

The key to proper watering is a slow and steady drip that has time to penetrate the soil. Overhead sprinkler systems have come a long way in terms of efficiency but are still prone to evaporation and excessive runoff. Converting a planter with a drip system can be quick and inexpensive, and you may even see a return on your investment in your monthly water bill. Check out the EPA WaterSense website for more information on using less water while achieving healthier plants in the hot summer months.

Water Early Mornings

A good, long soak in the early morning hours allows the soil to absorb more water and minimizes evaporation. Avoid watering in the afternoon or the hottest parts of the day, as most moisture will evaporate quickly and never penetrate the soil or reach the plants’ roots. Another reason early mornings are best is that the air is typically calm and sprinkler spray is more likely to water your own lawn instead of being carried off to your neighbor’s.

Set Lawn Mower to the Highest Setting

If you have a lawn, keeping your grass taller is better for its overall health. Taller grass retains moisture in the soil during extreme temperatures and heat. Think of it as a thick blanket on top of the lawn’s root system—it protects the soil from the hot midday sun, requires less water to keep it green and saves you some green on your utility bill, too. When you’re done, make sure to tidy up your sidewalk and driveway with a push broom (BM 61002) for a cleaner look. 

Use Native Plants

Native and adaptive plants can survive on less water and tolerate excessive rains and humidity. These days, your choices are not limited to cacti or succulents—your local garden centers offer a wide selection of native plants. Look for labels that state low water requirements or show that the plant thrives in the local climate. Your county extension can provide you with a list of natives for your area. Remember to grab a nursery shovel (LG13744) or garden hand tool (CT 2000) set for digging and planting.

These are our favorite ways to beat the heat in the garden, but we’d love to hear yours. What do you do to help your plants survive soaring summer temperatures? Follow Corona® Tools on Instagram and Facebook to share your tips with us!

ABOUT CORONA TOOLS

We are a company steeped in history, and our story dates back to the late 1920s. Today, Corona Tools stands tall as an industry leader in professional and consumer tools, with each of our products showcasing the result of decades of proven design, forged through quality manufacturing processes. But we also believe that our tools are more than what they’re made of—they have the power to become loyal companions for contractors, dependable allies for agricultural professionals and trusted partners for avid gardeners. They stand as a reminder to our customers, helping them rediscover who they are, season after season. Learn more at coronatools.com.

ABOUT VENANPRI TOOLS

Corona is a part of Venanpri Group, a global leader in the manufacturing of agricultural wear parts and a leading provider of hand tools for the agriculture, construction and gardening markets in Europe, North America and Latin America. Venanpri Group manufactures and distributes tools under the company's family of brands, including Bellota, Corona and Burgon & Ball. Learn more at www.venanpri.com.