Extreme heat not only stresses many plants but can actually put many plants into a dormant state and stop their growth. Very high temperatures can kill pollen, so high heat can also prevent plants from bearing fruit.
Here are some gardening tips that may help you to continue gardening even during this extremely hot weather:
1. Pay attention to those plants that love the heat.
Find vegetables grown in the southern states, or tropics. This includes tomatoes, eggplants, melons, peppers, bad bar spinach, eastern beans, and lima. Sweet potatoes, okra, and southern peas can withstand the most heat.
2. Keep the soil moist.
Water your plants frequently. Although you may need to water every day in some circumstances, it is very important to water your plants deeply, at least once a week on clay soils and twice a week on sandy soils. You will gradually learn how much you need to water your garden to maintain good moisture levels. During extreme heat, expect your garden to need at least twice (or more) water. Strong winds also have the potential to increase water demand.
3. Invest in shade cloths.
Give your garden partial shade during extreme heat times, and temperatures are likely to drop by more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit. You may cover your garden in fabric, fences, or latticework supported on a frame. It can be old sheets and thin curtains. Make sure your shade-generating material is secured enough to strong winds, and high enough on the plants to allow your garden to be sufficiently ventilated.
4. Refrain from using crushed stones and bricks.
It absorbs excess heat and releases it even after the sun goes down. This is similar to the "heat island" effect in the garden. Your yard will get hotter if you place it on the south or west side (in the Northern Hemisphere) of an unshaded building. You can keep your garden cooler by surrounding the garden bed with a lawn or organic humus.
5. Make sure to put enough space for your plants.
Narrowly spaced plants compete strongly with each other for water. If you can keep your plants further apart, they experience less stress during periods of extreme heat.
6. If possible, do not use tall raised garden beds.
High beds get warmer and dry faster. In hot climates, it is a drawback. The soil is cooler and moist underground. Therefore, in very hot and dry climates, instead of creating tall beds, we suggest focusing on improving the soil deeper.
7. Start seeds indoors under lights.
The soil is hot and too many seeds will not germinate at all. During peak heat, one option is to start these seeds under room light, let them harden, and then transplant them into your garden (Gently adjust the plants to direct sunlight and wind). Make sure that your newly planted seedlings are sufficiently watered and partially shaded if installed outdoors.
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