The hot dry weather associated with the summer will affect the landscape in many ways. But when that is coupled with a drought, gardeners may start to struggle.
Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done to prevent a drought, but there are ways to help minimize its effects on a garden.
Watering
It is important to make sure the plants are watered deeply. Typically, plants prefer 1 – 1.5 inches of moisture each week.
Rather than spreading this moisture out throughout the week, try doing a single deep watering each week. This method will help encourage plants to grow stronger and deeper root systems thereby helping the plants to withstand the warmer, drier conditions.
Additionally, watering deeply helps ensure more moisture is kept within the soil rather than evaporating.
Fertilizer
During a drought it is a good idea to stop putting any additional fertilizer on the garden. Fertilizer encourages plants to grow faster, and faster growth typically means a need for more water.
Another important note on fertilizer, without consistent moisture to the soil, fertilizer salts can start building up. This harmful buildup in the soil tends to burn the roots of plants.
Mulch
To help protect the garden, make sure to add two to three inches of mulch on top of the soil. The mulch will act as a barrier, keeping the direct sunlight from heating the soil and allowing moisture to stay in the ground longer.
Plus, it is a great deterrent for weeds.
Avoid Using Herbicides/Pesticides
During dry conditions, herbicides are a no-go for three reasons:
- First, weeds have a tendency not to take up the herbicide as well in drier conditions.
- Additionally, some weeds have been known to become tolerant to herbicides during droughts.
- Finally, herbicides will turn to gas if conditions are too hot. This can cause the herbicide to drift, affecting other plants.
As for pesticides, the chemicals in pesticides are applied directly to the plants’ leaves. During drought conditions, these chemicals can harm the plant itself. Plus, they can create more problems than solutions for a gardener later on.
More Information
Senior Security Alliance USA posts helpful information about gardening every week. Be sure to catch our latest post by following us on Twitter and Facebook!
