Get “Waterwise”
As the weather heats up, it becomes more imperative to conserve water in the garden and provide the best care for your growing plants. Here are a few tips to help as we approach the hot months:
• Mulch. Placing mulch around the base of your plants can help with reducing water evaporation.
• Stay Low. Water plants at soil level rather than overhead. This allows water to get to the plants roots. Water deeply and infrequently, soak the soil well.
• Get to the roots. Implement the use of soaker hoses as a useful tool and easy watering solution to help your plants get a good deep watering near the roots.
For a handy list of some great waterwise plants, check out our Waterwise Gardening post.
Planting
Your summer veggies have all been planted, and now it is time to watch and help them grow as the heat of the summer comes upon us. What to do now? We will continue to carry fresh herbs and color in our nursery. Consider growing and caring for a Healthy Herb Garden for all your culinary needs!
Our nursery has begun the transition from summer veggies into fall veggies! Wait, “fall veggies?” you say? It seems odd to be talking about planting for fall right as summer begins, however… July is a great time to plant for the fall! Check out our list of what to plant in July here.
Fertilizing
Grow your best summer veggies! This time of year, plants like cucurbits (members of the gourd family such as melon, pumpkin, squash, and cucumber) could use a little nitrogen and potassium boost to ensure healthy supportive plant growth after flowering. While growth studies show that phosphorus is important for flowering and fruiting, it’s most effective when applied before planting.
Prevention & Maintenance
Keep your fruit trees healthy and free from pests and disease with this Month to Month Schedule. Consider cultural controls first, then move to physical and biological controls. Choose the least toxic options such as (insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, botanical insecticides, organic & synthetic pesticides) and use them judiciously.
Growing tomatoes? Ensure they are trellised properly to support the weight of the fruit. Check out our information on Growing Tomatoes for tips on harvesting, and some common problems to keep an eye out for during the season.