Gardening Tips For summer : Keep Your Garden Green Even During Drought! Smart Summer Gardening Tips You Must Know

Gardening Tips For summer : As temperatures rise and summer approaches, gardeners face one of the biggest challenges of the season - keeping plants healthy during dry and drought-like conditions. However, with more than 60 percent of the United States dealing with drought, maintaining a thriving landscape has become increasingly difficult.

Ed Olsen, a consumer horticulture specialist and director of the Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program, shares essential strategies for gardening in dry conditions and the common mistakes to avoid.

Planting during a drought
While it is not ideal, Olsen said planting during drought can be done if gardeners are prepared for the extra effort required to keep plants adequately watered. Another important consideration, he said, is whether local water restrictions are in place, as these may limit irrigation.

When selecting plants, Olsen said it’s important to distinguish between those that can be installed during dry spells and those that are naturally drought-tolerant.

“Regardless of the species, the first year is critical for survival,” he said. “Even drought-tolerant plants require regular watering until they are fully established.

Techniques for success
Olsen recommends following the “right plant, right place” principle. For example, placing a shade-loving plant in full sun will further stress a plant already struggling with water loss.

Proper mulching is also vital. “Mulch reduces sunlight reaching the soil surface, moderates soil temperature, and helps retain soil moisture,” Olsen said. He recommends applying 3 to 4 inches of mulch while keeping it pulled back from direct contact with the plant trunk or stem to prevent rot.

Efficient watering
During the growing season, most plants need approximately one inch of water per week. When rainfall is insufficient, supplemental irrigation may be necessary.

According to Olsen, the most frequent error gardeners make during a drought is watering too frequently and too lightly. To maximize efficiency, he shared these techniques:

Water early: Irrigate in the morning when temperatures are cooler to reduce loss from evaporation.

Target the roots: Apply water directly at the base of the plant.

Avoid sprinklers: Sprinklers are prone to water loss from wind drift and evaporation. Studies estimate that 20 to 30 percent of water applied via daytime sprinklers is lost before it reaches the roots.

Water deeply: Ensure moisture reaches the entire root ball rather than just the surface.

Water conservation
To conserve water during a drought, Olsen suggests:

Group containers: Place container plants closer together to reduce air movement and moisture loss.

Collect rainwater: Use rain barrels or buckets during storms to reduce reliance on municipal water.

Use anti-transpirants: These can help plants lock in moisture during transplants or extreme summer heat, a tactic frequently used in professional nurseries and landscaping.

“Following recommended practices can help gardens better tolerate dry conditions,” Olsen said. “However, during prolonged drought, some plant stress may still occur despite best efforts.”

Experts believe that with proper care, smart watering habits, and moisture-saving techniques, gardens can remain green and healthy even during prolonged dry conditions.