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Gardener shares three things you must never do to plants when it's hot
Another heatwave is looming on the horizon and while it brings great discomfort to many of us, our plants all suffer tremendously in the heat.
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Expert Gardener Reveals 3 Critical Mistakes to Avoid in 100-Degree Heat
As summer temperatures soar, gardeners often face the challenge of protecting their plants from extreme heat. According to gardening expert Uncle Josh, there are three critical mistakes to avoid when the mercury hits 100 degrees Fahrenheit. First, resist the urge to fertilize. "When it's hot, your plants are already stressed," explains Uncle Josh. "Adding fertilizer now is like trying to make them run a marathon while they're already dehydrated." Instead, allow plants to rest during intense heat. Second, be mindful of your watering schedule. Watering in the middle of the day is largely ineffective as most of the water will evaporate before reaching the roots. Conversely, watering in the evening can be problematic. "Especially if you get the leaves wet, because that promotes fungus and other diseases," he warns. The best time to water, when possible, is in the mornings. Finally, avoid heavy pruning. While it might seem like a good idea to tidy up, older leaves serve a vital purpose. "Older leaves are providing shade, and removing them can expose tender parts of the plants," Uncle Josh advises. This applies to both fruit trees and garden vegetables. "Bottom line is, when it's this hot, less is more," Uncle Josh concludes, emphasizing the importance of keeping plants hydrated and shaded, and saving more intensive gardening tasks for cooler days.
