Summer survival

Plant survival tips

SUMMER DOS 

• When it’s scorchingly hot, consider installing temporary shade for vulnerable plants such as ferns, young seedlings and new plantings. Quick solutions include throwing sheets or towels over supporting stakes, setting up old umbrellas, or poking leafy sprigs into the soil, where they’ll shade baby plants for a day or so. 
• Water in the early morning or evening, directing a gentle flow at the base of the plants. Drip irrigation is a good choice – especially in humid climates where disease risk is high – because it delivers water straight to the roots and keeps foliage dry. Group smaller container specimens together in the shade. Apply soil wetters to encourage water to enter quickly and maximally into the root area. Spray an anti-transpirant on the foliage of vulnerable plants to create a ‘sunscreen’ that protects tender shoots. Seaweed solution can also help promote root growth and reduce plant stress.  
• Tropical gardens face a different set of challenges in summer because they can be damaged by an overabundance of water during the rainy season. After summer downpours, check that drains are running freely and replace any mulch that has been washed away. Move small container plants under cover where they will be out of the rain. 
• Remember, too, to have clean water available for birds, lizards and other visitors to your garden. 

SUMMER DON’TS 

• A summer heatwave is not the time to plant, re-pot, prune heavily, apply dry fertilisers or spray with oil.  
• In the tropics, avoid working wet, soggy soil, especially after a drenching.  
• Never cut the summer lawn too low in any climate; a good grass layer will strengthen the roots and shade the soil. 

Read our wellness special in the January issue of ABC Gardening Australia magazine for more summer survival tips, advice on staying safe in the garden, and discover why gardening makes us feel good. Get your copy today! 

Header image credit: Getty Images