HEAT — Great summer light often comes with the price of
high afternoon heat. Heat in the garden can scorch plants
directly, warm the surface soil to unhealthy levels, or rob the
soil of essential moisture. Reflected heat from walls and dense
hardscapes may also create unexpected hot spots. Careful plant
selection, increased airflow, calculated mulching, strategic
watering, and the use of row covers and other shade producing
devices can help. The first step is to recognize what types of
heat-related challenges you're dealing with.
MOISTURE — Today, drought is an issue in many areas
throughout the country. It’s always helpful to understand how
much moisture your garden is receiving now, and where you
should supplement through watering. Is it worth adding an
irrigation system and controller, or are your trusty hose and a
consistent watering schedule enough?
UNEVEN TERRAIN — Slopes, and high and low stretches, often
result in dry spots, erosion problems, and boggy areas where
water pools after a rain. The results of soil deficits, like too much
clay or sand, or not enough organic matter, also become more
pronounced in pitched or undulating gardens.
WIND — Good airflow is essential for plant health, but wind can
be too much of a good thing. Staking plants for added support
only solves part of the problem. In the summer heat, persistent
wind steals moisture from plants through evaporation. Wind
savvy plant selection and calculated wind breaks are very
effective, but only if you suss out where they’re most needed first.
“
The term ‘microclimate’
may sound like a newfangled
marketing ploy, but
this approach to
cultivation has been
around for centuries.”
wherever you are,
whatever you’re
doing,
we’ll come
to
check out our app for info on-the-go...
... and pick up a copy of Maximum Yield for your garden adventures!
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you.
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Maximum Yield
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