Hey gardening enthusiasts! As a master gardener here in Colorado, I know how challenging it can be to keep your garden thriving during a heatwave. With these expert tips, you can ensure your plants stay healthy and hydrated, even when temperatures soar.
How often to Water Plants in a Heatwave
When a heatwave strikes, it's crucial to adjust your watering routine. Deep watering at least once a day is essential, and you might need to water twice daily if the heat is extreme. The key is to ensure the water reaches the root zone, promoting strong root growth and making plants more resilient. Consistent deep watering helps plants withstand high temperatures better and gives a much needed temperature break from the high heat of the day.
Which Plants to Prioritize
Certain plants need more attention during a heatwave. Young plants, potted plants, and varieties with shallow roots, like annuals and vegetables, should be your top priority. Established trees and shrubs are generally more drought-resistant but can still benefit from extra watering during prolonged heat. Flowering and fruiting plants are especially sensitive to heat stress and should not be overlooked. Focusing on these vulnerable plants to keep your garden flourishing and protect the money you invested in new starts and seeds.
Best Time of Day to Water
Timing is everything when it comes to watering during a heatwave. The best time to water is early in the morning, allowing the water to penetrate the soil before the day’s heat causes rapid evaporation. If morning watering isn't feasible, late evening is the next best option. Just be cautious to avoid wetting the foliage too much, as this can promote fungal diseases. Just remember, morning or evening watering will do your plants the most good.
Using Shade Cloth to Protect Your Plants
Another great way to protect your garden during a heatwave is by using shade cloth. Shade cloth is a lightweight fabric that can be draped above plants to provide relief from the intense sun. It reduces the amount of direct sunlight reaching your plants, lowering the temperature and reducing water evaporation. Try staking sheets, tarps, or other excess material in a way that casts shade over your plants during the hottest times of the day. This will decrease heat stress which will help your plants thrive.
Sustainable Watering Practices
Water conservation is important, especially during a heatwave. Here are some tips that will conserve water and cut down on your water bill during these scorching days.
- Mulching: A thick layer of mulch around your plants helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool. Think of it as armor for their roots to keep their vitals protected. If you are using drip irrigation, place the mulch on top of the system as this will allow the most moisture to reach you plants.
- Drip Irrigation: This method delivers water directly to the plant’s roots, reducing the chance you are wasting water.
- Rain Barrels: Collecting and using rainwater is a great way to conserve water.
- Targeted Watering: Using a watering can instead of spray irrigation allows you to water specific plants, avoiding unnecessary watering on plants or weeds. This helps you make the most of every drop and you can use recycled water while doing it!
Tips for your caring for your Houseplants
Don’t forget your indoor plants during a heatwave! Here’s how to care for them:
- Relocate: Move houseplants to cooler spots away from direct sunlight.
- Increase Humidity: Mist your plants regularly or use a humidity tray to increase moisture levels around them.
- Check Before Watering: Indoor plants often need less water during a heatwave to avoid root rot. Always check the soil moisture before watering again.
Try our Tropical Houseplant Kit, which includes a continuous flow mister. The products included will help you plants use the heat to put our new leaves and blooms. Energy is energy, don't let it go to waste!
By following these tips, you can help your garden and houseplants survive and even thrive during the hottest days. Stay cool and happy gardening!
