CORVALLIS, Ore. — People and plants both need care to make it through a severe heat wave without wilting.
Erica Chernoh, horticulturist with the Oregon State University Extension Service, offers these tips to help keep yourself and your garden as comfortable as possible during high temperatures.
Stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle — and use it. You need water just as much as your plants do.
Work early. Plan garden tasks for the morning before the hottest part of the day.
Protect yourself. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen when working outdoors.
Water in the morning. This allows plants to absorb moisture before the peak heat.
Water deeply. Aim for water to reach at least 6 inches into the soil. Plants will let you know when they need water — they wilt. Watch for signs of drooping. You can also check soil moisture by digging 1 to 2 inches down near the base of the plant. Sandy soils dry out more quickly than clay soils and may require more frequent watering.
Water at the base. When watering by hand, aim the water directly at the soil under the plant to minimize waste and avoid wetting leaves.
Check containers frequently. Hanging baskets and container plants dry out more quickly than those in the ground. Test moisture by sticking your finger into the soil. If the container is small, pick it up — if it feels light, it likely needs water. Consider moving potted plants to a shadier spot during a heat wave.
Apply mulch. Mulching around plants helps reduce evaporation. Use materials such as straw, compost or decomposed manure.
Provide shade. Shade cloth, available at garden centers, can protect sensitive plants. Use a frame to hold the cloth above the plants, allowing for airflow. Temperatures under shade cloth can be up to 10 degrees cooler. Shade cloth can also be used over cold frames, cloches or greenhouses.
Avoid plant stress. Do not transplant, prune or fertilize plants during extreme heat.
Move seedlings. Relocate young plants to a shaded location to reduce stress and risk of damage.
Tips for the future
Choose drought-tolerant plants. Group them together in your garden to manage water use efficiently.
Use efficient irrigation systems. Drip systems and soaker hoses deliver water directly to plant roots and reduce evaporation.
Control weeds. Weeds compete with your plants for water and nutrients.
Improve your soil. Amending soil with organic material improves water retention and overall plant health.
Previously titled Tips for gardening in extreme heat