This summer has been one of the hottest (and wettest) that I can remember… and if your garden is feeling the heat, know that you’re not alone.
But don’t worry – I’ve learned 4 key tips for keeping your gorgeous kitchen garden growing in the heat that I’m excited to share with you. And just in time for our Chicago summer to take it up a notch!
With a few simple strategies, we can protect your veggies and keep them thriving in our blistering August temps.
Trust me – your plants will thank you!
Water Wisely
Proper watering is crucial during hot weather. Here are some tips to ensure your plants stay hydrated:
- Water the Roots, not the Leaves: Your veggies absorb water through their roots, not their leaves, so ditch overhead watering. Any water on leaves will evaporate before it can help your veggies and herbs.
- Water Early or Late: Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation and give your plants time to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.
- Deep, Infrequent Watering: Instead of frequent shallow watering, aim for fewer but deeper watering sessions. This encourages roots to grow deeper to reach the water deep in the soil, making plants more resilient to heat stress.
- Mulch, Mulch, Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool. Organic mulches like straw, shredded leaves, or compost work wonders to make sure your garden keeps the water that it needs.
Choose Heat-Tolerant Varieties
Some plants are better suited to handle the heat than others. When planning your garden, consider incorporating heat-tolerant varieties. Here are a few favorites that love a little heat:
- Vegetables: Okra, sweet potatoes, eggplants, and peppers.
- Herbs: Basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
- Flowers: Zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers.
Give Container Plants Extra TLC
Container plants have less soil to grow in than plants in a raised bed, so they suffer more quickly from heat stress. Make sure to:
- Check Daily: Container plants dry out faster, so check their moisture levels daily.
- Use Larger Pots: Larger pots hold more soil, which retains moisture better and keeps roots cooler.
- Move to Shade: If possible, move your containers to a shaded area during the hottest part of the day.
Don’t Forget About Yourself!
Gardening in the heat can be tough on you too! Stay hydrated, wear a hat and sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.
I’ve found that gardening in lightweight shirts with long sleeves keep me cooler longer, too. Check out my favorite gardening shirt here (this isn’t affiliate link – I just like the shirt that much!)
Your garden needs you to be healthy and happy, so remember to take care of yourself!
Keep Growing!
Love,
