This summer, temperatures have reached unprecedented highs, with experts suggesting that it could be the hottest period ever recorded in a while. While it's important to prioritize your own well-being in such extreme heat, you may also be concerned about caring for your outdoor plants, as they are susceptible to stress and dehydration.
Here are several valuable tips from gardening experts on how to care for your plants during a heat wave, ensuring their survival.
Water deeply and regularly, preferably in the early morning or evening to minimize evaporation. Make sure the water reaches the root zone to sustain the plants. Fern Berg, a gardening expert and the founder of Tree Vitalize, agrees that deep watering is essential, and says you should regularly check your soil's moisture levels to determine if more water is needed.
"If the top one to two inches of soil is dry, it is time to provide some water to your plant! You can also purchase a moisture meter that will give you an indication of your soil's moisture levels without needing to get your hands dirty," she says.
Use organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of your plants. This helps retain moisture, prevents weed growth, regulates soil temperature, and protects roots from direct sunlight. "Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of your plants," advises Laurier. She further says, "Mulching helps to retain moisture in the soil, reduces weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. It also prevents excessive evaporation and protects the roots from direct sunlight…"
Provide temporary shade for heat-sensitive plants using items like old sheets, shade cloth, or umbrellas. This reduces the risk of heat stress by limiting direct sunlight exposure. Laurier adds that reducing the intensity of sunlight minimizes water loss through evaporation. "Additionally, consider relocating potted plants to shaded areas during extreme heat," he suggests.
Create a windbreak to protect plants from hot and dry winds. Hanging a sheet of plastic, wood, or metal, or using garden furniture as a barrier can help prevent additional stress and excessive soil drying.
Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal further attributes that if the heatwave is accompanied by hot and dry wind, protecting your plants with a wind break also makes a big difference to their ability to survive the extreme weather.
"Not only will the wind place additional pressure on an already stressed plant, but it will dry the surrounding soil out even faster than the sun alone", explains Caballero.
Berg says that an effective windbreak can be as simple as hanging a sheet of plastic, wood, or metal above your vulnerable plants. "A large bin, wheelbarrow placed on its side or other garden furniture can also be used. Just make sure your windbreak is secure and doesn't become a hazard!"
Avoid fertilizing during a heat wave, as high temperatures can make plants more vulnerable to fertilizer burn. Focus on maintaining hydration, and wait until the weather cools down before resuming fertilization.
Whitewash the trunks of susceptible trees, especially fruit and flower trees on your piece of land, to reflect sunlight and prevent sunscald. Mix equal parts of white interior latex paint and water, and apply it to the trunk or exposed bark.
Monitor your plants closely for signs of stress or damage, such as wilting leaves, yellowing, or browning foliage. Adjust your care routine by providing extra water and shade as necessary, paying special attention to potted plants, which tend to dry out faster.
Remember to adapt these guidelines to suit your specific garden and plant species. Stay vigilant and make adjustments accordingly until the weather cools down.
