As Ontario is hit with scorching heat, sweltering humidity and a whole lot of sun, we hope you’re staying cool and hydrated.

And the same goes for your plants, too.

As the summer progresses, plants need a little extra care and attention to stay healthy and happy.

Here are four tips to help sustain your yard throughout the summer.

Invest in mulch

Adding mulch to your gardens is a surefire way to keep your plants cool and protected in the midst of a heatwave.

An even and thin layer of mulch around the base of your plants will help regulate soil temperatures and aid in water conservation. However, be wary of over-piling mulch as that can lead to root suffocation.

Water, water and water some more!

Just like people, plants need to stay hydrated.

While watering frequently is important, the time of day your water also makes an impact on the health of your garden.

Watering early in the morning, before the sun reaches its apex, will give the water the opportunity to reach plant roots before it evaporates. Also, ensure the water deeply penetrates the ground.

Give your plants shade

Even the most sun-loving plants need a break every once in a while.

If you have plants that receive no shade throughout the day, invest in shade covers that can be positioned over the plants on any given day. Shade cloths are an inexpensive and easy option to provide plants with a ton of relief on a hot day.

Avoid fertilizer

As we all know, heat requires a lot of energy.

It’s important to not overwork your garden when it’s extremely hot outside. Fertilizer requires plants to extend energy for absorption — energy that is unavailable while the plant battles the heat. Fertilizer will rest in the soil and create the risk of further stressing the plant.

Instead, wait until the heat drops to return to your regular fertilizing habits.

This summer we hope you and your gardens stay healthy and hydrated!

 

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