Image courtesy of Flickr by Moria
We Capitol Hill Residents love our little yards. We spend all fall raking them and planting bulbs, we spend winter plotting what we will plant come spring, we spend spring digging and planting, and all summer fretting over those plants and what the heat is doing to them. We would love to bring them inside to sit in the chill with an ice cold beer as we thank them for their duty of making us smile. But, well those little suckers are anchored to the ground. And with a little help from us, we can help ease their pain.
Watering plants during extreme temperatures has always been a debate. If we water them in the morning will it evaporate? If we water them at night will they be to dry to suck in the water? Do plants even like beer? I decided to put my horticulture degree to good use and help ease some minds on how to help our plants cool off.
Plants transpire (evaporate) water vapor through tiny holes on their leaves — mostly on the underside. This helps to cool the plant and draws nutrients from the soil and roots to the upper parts of the plant. On hot or dry, windy days plants can lose a lot of water, sometimes faster than they can take it up, and that can stress them making them more vulnerable to insects and disease. Here are some tips on how to ease your outdoor friend’s stress:
- When the temps get into the 90′s and above you may need to water your plants twice a day — early morning and late evening.
- Container plants are especially vulnerable in this hot weather. Check for wilting.
- Some wilting can be normal for certain plants, but if they look really droopy and the soil is dry don’t wait, water right away.
- Check newly planted trees and shrubs. Keep them well watered — deep watering is best.
- A good layer of mulch, 2 -3 inches, will keep plant roots cool and will cut down on evaporation.
Also, while you’re out there tending to your plants, don’t forget to keep yourself well hydrated! With a little extra water and love, you’re green friends are sure to make it through the summer.