5 Tips to Beat Summer Heat in Your Garden

As Americans prepare to celebrate the 4th of July this weekend, many of us will enjoy fireworks and cookouts in parks and backyards. It also means that summer is here, and temperatures are on the rise. Folks in the western states are hitting record highs so early in the season, and excessive rains are causing severe flooding in the East. Regardless of where you are, the summer heat and sun are sure to wreak havoc on your garden this season.

Here are a few things you can do to help keep your garden growing, even in the harshest summer conditions.

Spread a Layer of Mulch – a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch helps the soil retain moisture and helps reduce the rate of evaporation. It also helps to suppress weed growth, which, if allowed to grow, takes up precious water and nutrients from your plants. Natural mulches will also break down over time and provide nutrients back into the soil. DON'T FORGET: When it comes to your trees, avoid piling mulch up around the base of the tree and trunk. I can damage your tree by inviting fungus or unwanted pests. It's better to mulch out than up!

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 being more efficient but are still prone to evaporation and excess runoff. Converting a planter with a drip system can be quick and inexpensive. You'll also see the return on your investment in your monthly water bill. Less water and healthier plants, even in the hot summer months. For more information, check out the EPA WaterSense website. 

Water Early Mornings—A good long soak in the early morning hours allows more water to be absorbed in the soil and minimizes water evaporation. Avoid watering in the afternoon or the hottest parts of the day, as most will evaporate quickly and never penetrate the soil or reach the plant's roots. Another reason early mornings are best is that the air is typically calm with less wind. Spray from sprinklers is more likely to water your lawn instead of being carried off to your neighbor's! 

Set Lawn Mower to Highest Setting – If you have a lawn, keeping your grass taller is better for its overall health. Taller grass will help it retain 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 mid-day sun, will require less water to keep it green, and saves you some green on your utility bill too.

Use Native Plants – Natives and adaptive plants can survive on less water or 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 or thrive in the local climate. Your county extension can provide you with a list of natives for your area. 

There you have it—5 easy ways to beat the summer heat in your garden this summer. What other things do you do to help plants survive in your garden when it's hot? Share them with us in the comments below!

About Corona:

Corona Tools was born in the orange groves of Southern California in 1928. Our roots began with an invention that revolutionized the citrus industry. Since then, we’ve been designing superior garden and landscape tools for hard working professionals and gardeners, who take pride in a job well done. For generations, our customers have relied on Corona’s strength and durability. For over 90 years, Corona has established itself as a leading professional tool brand, primarily within North America. Part of the global Venanpri Tools family of hand tool brands, our tools are carried in retail stores, local garden centers, and landscape, agriculture and arborist suppliers.  

About Venanpri Tools:

Venanpri Tools is a global collective of the finest hand tool brands for agriculturists, horticulturists, gardeners, landscape and construction professionals. The cumulative experience of the Bellota, Burgon & Ball and Corona brands represents nearly 500 years of advancement in developing superior hand tools. With a global footprint spanning more than 125 countries across 6 continents, our brands have been the leading choice for generations of professionals who rely on quality and lasting performance.