First day of summer preparation

In the Garden
Ralph Purkhiser, Purdue University Master Gardener

     With the official first day of summer quickly approaching, heat and humidity arrived in the Ohio Valley to give us a preview.   While it is tempting to just sit in an air-conditioned house and het the garden go, it is possible to do some gardening, despite the uncomfortable conditions.
     The plants in our gardens actually like the hot, humid conditions, as long as they have sufficient moisture.  Watering will be a major chore.  Newly planted specimens and plants in pots will need some special attention and may need to be watered twice a day.  It is best to water in the cooler, morning hours, but you may need to give plants additional moisture in the late afternoon.
     Watering techniques also matter.  The most efficient use of water is to get it to the roots of the plants.  That is most easily done using hand-watering.  Wet foliage can result in conditions favorable for fungal disease incubation, especially when wet at night.  If you must use overhead watering, do so early enough that the foliage will dry before nightfall.
     Soaker hoses and emitter systems are also effective ways to water plants, but they can be expensive for the average homeowner, and they need to have been put in place before the need arises for their use.  You may still be able to lay a soaker hose in a bed and hook it to your regular garden hose when needed.
     Air movement is also an important weapon against disease.  Good circulation around foliage will help prevent disease.  When there is not wind, it is good to provide air movement using an electric fan.  You may use a regular household fan, but most are not made to withstand outdoor conditions.  However, there are fans especially manufactured for outdoor use and they may be very valuable in the care of your plants and in providing comfort to you.
     Like the plants, gardeners need to stay hydrated.  Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids to keep your body hydrated.  As much as possible, keep to the shade.  I often say I follow the shade around my garden.  I may not finish with a particular section before the sun invades, but I get a day’s work in and will follow the shade again the next day.  Of course, you may also provide artificial shade using shade cloths and temporary structures.
     This is also a time for a change of wardrobe.  Wear light-weight clothing in light colors.  Find a hat that suits you.  I like a wide-brimmed hat to protect my face and neck from the sun.  I also like a hat that has a thick sweatband.  It will help catch the perspiration that falls down from your brow and protects your eyes.  Wear sturdy shoes that will keep your feet dry and protected from the sticks and stones you will encounter.
     It is important to remember that the work not completed will still be there tomorrow.  In this heat, do not over-do it.  Work in short segments and take plenty of breaks.  Spend plenty of time sitting on those garden benches with a cold glass of tea in your hand.  After all, is that not the reason you have worked so hard to have a beautiful garden?  Enjoy it!