Sign in or sign up
Project list
Sign in to your account
With project lists you can...
Please sign in or create an account to use Project Lists
The soaring temperatures and harsh UV rays of high summer can cause plants to wilt and burn. Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect them and help them survive the heat.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Always wear gloves and a mask when handling potting mix, mulch and compost, and store products out of the reach of children and pets.
One of the best ways to provide relief from the intense sun is to install a shade cloth. “Look for one with a 30 to 50 percent shade rating and erect it over vulnerable plants,” says Yates’ horticulturist Angie Thomas.
Create a frame using stakes or star pickets, which allows you to easily install or place the cover over the plants. “Shade cloth is particularly handy in the tomato patch, as fruit is susceptible to sunburn if not protected,” says Angie. Move potted plants to a shadier spot or set up a sun umbrella to keep them cool.
Over time, soil and potting mix can become hydrophobic (water repellent). “Apply a wetting agent to help break down the waxy, water-repellent layer and allow the water to penetrate into the root zone,” says Angie. A hose-on pack is a good option for large areas like the lawn.
Improving the soil with organic matter can also help increase its water uptake. “Organic matter like compost and composted animal manures act like a moisture sponge in the soil,” says Angie. “Mix them into the soil at planting time and reapply regularly through the year.”
Wilting leaves are a sign plants are suffering from a lack of water, but you don’t necessarily need to water more – it’s about when and how. “It’s best to water deeply a few times a week instead of watering in small amounts every day,” says Angie. “Thorough watering moves the moisture deeper into the soil, which promotes deeper root growth and helps plants cope better with hot and dry conditions.”
Hand watering is easy, but time-consuming, says Matt Wichmann of Holman. “Hoses and watering cans are ideal for small balcony gardens, pot plants and targeting specific areas, but for those with larger spaces or lots of plants, consider installing irrigation.”
A black poly pipe with drippers is very effective. “Set it up so it waters the root zone directly. This will help maximise water efficiency and minimise run-off and evaporation,” says Matt. “Add a tap timer to automate the whole system.”
Tip: Don’t forget to check water restrictions with your local council.
Mulch is garden gold. “It keeps the soil cool and reduces moisture loss,” says Angie. Organic mulches like pea straw, lucerne and pine bark are great because they add organic matter to the soil as they break down. Straw mulches can be applied up to 10cm thick, but keep bark mulches between 5-8cm. Don’t forget to mulch pots, too. Inorganic mulches like gravel and stones also work, but they don’t add anything to the soil.
The golden rule with lawns is to never mow more than one-third of the length off your grass. Why is this so important in the hot season? Long blades of grass provide cover and shade for the soil, so the roots stay moist.
“If you live in an area with hot, dry summers, look for plants that are particularly suited to these growing conditions,” says Angie. “Try cacti and succulents, natives and Mediterranean plants like lavender, echium, olives and rosemary.”
Hardwearing plants generally share similar features, such as hairy or waxy leaves, or silver-toned foliage.
Check out our guide on how to install irrigation sprayers and drippers.
Photo Credit: Getty Images and Natasha Dickins
