Gardening In The Summer Heat

In the summer, gardening can be a difficult task. The heat and humidity make it hard to work in the garden for long periods without risking sunstroke or dehydration. Though they love the sun, your plants can also have a difficult time with the change of weather. Thankfully there are plenty of easy ways to beat these summertime obstacles, though, for both you and your garden because planting flowers in the summer can be an enriching experience. So here are some tips on how to keep cool this summer!

Some of us long for summer all year long, vitamin D, long hot days, beach if you are lucky to be near the coast, swimming pool days if you are not. Ice cream cones and BBQs are on the menu, while others dread the heat and long for the cooler days of autumn and winter. Regardless of your season preference, and whether you love or despise the heat, you can take measures to be safe and healthy. 

Hydration is key 

Keep your body hydrated at all times by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after working in the yard. You’ll need more than usual because you lose water through sweat. Coldwater can help keep your body temperature down and be really refreshing! Be sure not to wait until you feel thirsty; it’s too late then! So drink up and keep track to make sure you drink the recommended eight glasses of water a day. 

Your Outfit Can Make All The Difference

Wear light-colored clothing that absorbs sweat instead of dark colors that hold heat close to your skin. Make sure to choose clothes that are loose-fitting and allow for movement. Restricted clothing can be even more uncomfortable as it may become more clingy. Wear a hat to provide some shade and sunscreen to avoid sunburn. If you find that you are often squinting and the glare makes it hard to see, add sunglasses to your ensemble You may think this outfit sounds a lot like a professional cricketer, but trust us when we say that it can make all the difference to your comfort. 

Comfort and Care

A kneeling garden pad is a nice extra for gardening and weeding garden beds. You can even make your own garden pad using an old pillow or cushion. Cover the pillow with a plastic or other water-resistant material, and you are set to garden in comfort. Take breaks often. The sun can be draining; try sitting in the shade and drinking some cold water or juice for a slight energy boost. 

Keep your tools all in one place for ease of retrieving them and clean them after every use. Clean and well-maintained garden tools can last a long time.

Care For Your plants 

Plants love the sun, but too much of anything is not a good thing. Just as you ensure to stay hydrated, your plants need water too. Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as that can bring many other issues. When watering your garden, use a hose with a spray nozzle to gently spray the plants and soil surrounding the plants.  Use mulch to keep plants cool and prevent fungi and weeds. Use organic fertilizers for nutrition and overall plant health. Organic fertilizers are better for the environment and your health. 

Don’t Forget About Your Grass 

When rain is scarce during the height of summer and the sunny days are long, our beautiful green lawns can turn to an unpleasant brown. A sprinkler system with a timer is the easiest way to water your lawn regularly, but if you do not have a watering system in place, you can use a hose with a spray nozzle and water your lawn twice a day for at least 10 to 15 minutes. 

Mow your lawn to keep the grass low to reduce fire risk and allow for proper airflow.

Follow these easy tips to stay cool in the heat of summer.  Are you ready to upgrade your Reno garden? DRC Landscaping can help with your landscaping needs, as well as installing systems that can keep your lawn healthy and hydrated. Whether you’re looking for gardening ideas or need landscaping assistance, reach out to us today for a free quote on your property, and we’ll help create a lawn that saves water and gives back.