EUGENE, Ore. – Wildfire smoke is taking a toll on plants and gardens across the region.
The smoke blocks the sun and clogs the leaves, impacting their ability to breathe. Leaves are dropping and colors are fading as plants struggle under the smoky conditions.
People can wipe down leaves coated in ash, but watering plants from above makes the ash stick and worsens the problem. Adrian Wagner, a garden coach at Johnson Brothers Garden Market, offered advice on proper watering techniques.
“Just make sure that you’re getting everything watered properly in the morning or in the evening, mainly in the morning. Long, deep soakings, and it should help out the plants,” Wagner said.
Produce affected by smoke is safe to eat. People harvesting during smoky conditions should wash off the ash outside first with a hose or watering can, and then again in the sink.
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