A myth that seems to persist is that planting in the summer can not be successful. The truth is, that most plants can do well when planted in the hottest season of the year. Summer isn’t necessarily the most desirable time to plant, but with a little bit of planning, your new additions should thrive. Here are a few things to consider before planting this summer.
Placement
It’s important, especially when planting new plants in the summer, to know where and how you’re going to place something new. The shock of moving a plant from one spot to another could be the difference between a healthy plant and an ailing one. It’s also important to mulch around the base of the plant, as it can help to conserve water and keep down weeds. Just remember not to put mulch right up against the plant.
Time of Day
The heat is the biggest concern with planting in the summer. It’s best to avoid the worst days of heat when possible, like planting on a cloudy or cooler day. In the summer, it’s also a good idea to plant in damp soil. You could even avoid the heat altogether by waiting to plant at night when it’s cooler. Planting in the evening also gives plants half a day to acclimate before facing the bigger challenge of late morning to late afternoon sun and temperatures.
Watering
Keep a close eye on your new plants. Water deeply and check them every day. A good way to determine if your soil is damp enough is to simply stick your finger into the ground next to the plants. If it’s already wet, there’s no need to water. If not, get out the hose. Taking the time daily to observe the plants and feel the root ball for moisture will provide clues that will help your new plants survive a heat spell. You might even consider watering by hand until you’re sure your new plants are getting enough moisture. Planting in summer is not for everyone. Planning ahead and giving plants a lot of attention are the keys to the successful planting and growth of a garden during the hottest time of the year. We have all the supplies and expertise you need, including our Lurvey Watering and Planting Guide, at Lurvey Home & Garden. Stop in today and keep the gardening going!
