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Drought-Tolerant Plants

Brain Cactus: A Unique and Fascinating Plant | Growth Guide and Care Tips

by Donna October 25, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Brain Cactus: A Fascinating Plant with a Unique Shape

Introduction

Brain cactus, also known as Mammillaria elongata ‘Cristata,’ is a captivating plant that stands out with its unusual and eye-catching appearance. Its intricate, convoluted growth pattern resembles the human brain, hence its common name.

Physical Characteristics

Brain cactus is a small, chubby plant that typically grows to a height of 6 inches and a width of 12 inches. Its twisted, fan-like pads are a defining feature, caused by damage to the plant’s growth point when it is young. The pads are green, but the dense covering of fine, hair-like spines gives them a grayish cast. The spines vary in size, with some being almost invisible to the naked eye.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, brain cactus can be found in the rocky outcroppings and crevices of Central Mexico. It prefers arid environments and is well-adapted to drought conditions. Over time, it forms a columnar structure with multiple stems and small offsets.

Growth and Care

Light: Brain cactus thrives in partial sun, with protection from the intense midday rays.

Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is sensitive to moisture and can develop rot. Water from the base to prevent water from collecting on the pads.

Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix.

Fertilizer: Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted cactus fertilizer.

Propagation: Brain cactus can be propagated through stem cuttings or division.

Stem cuttings: Allow the cut end of the stem to callus over for a week, then plant it in moist sand or cactus mix.

Division: Divide offsets from the parent plant using a clean, sterile knife. Allow the offsets to callus over before planting them in cactus mix.

Troubleshooting

Overwatering: Brain cactus is prone to rot if overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during the winter months.

Pests: Gnats can be attracted to the moisture trapped in the plant’s crevices. Keep the plant in a dry environment and avoid overwatering to prevent infestations.

Diseases: Mold and mildew can also occur if the plant is kept in humid conditions. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid overwatering.

Additional Information

Unique Growth Pattern: The twisted, convoluted growth pattern of brain cactus is a result of damage to the plant’s growth point when it is young. The cells at the injury site multiply rapidly, causing the pads to become distorted.

Drought Tolerance: Brain cactus is a succulent plant that has adapted to arid environments. It stores water in its fleshy pads and can survive long periods of drought.

Medicinal Uses: Brain cactus has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including headaches, stomach problems, and skin irritation. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence to support these claims is limited.

Flower Gardening

Desert Lupine: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Care

by Donna September 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Desert Lupine: A Guide for Gardeners

Introduction

Desert lupine, also known as Coulter’s lupine, is a beautiful wildflower that thrives in the southwestern United States and parts of northern Mexico. This nectar-rich plant attracts a variety of pollinators, including honeybees and bumblebees. In this article, we will explore the desert lupine plant, its growth requirements, and how to care for it in your garden.

Desert Lupine Characteristics

Desert lupine is a member of the pea family and is characterized by its dark green, palmate leaves and spikes of blue or purple, pea-like flowers. It typically grows to a height of 18 inches, but can reach up to 4 feet tall. Desert lupine plants bloom prolifically in moist years, creating a colorful carpet in the desert. Even in dry years, this hardy plant will bloom and can often be found growing along roadsides.

Growing Desert Lupine Plants

When growing desert lupines, well-drained soil is essential. These plants do not tolerate clay soil. They prefer full sunlight, but can tolerate light shade, which can be beneficial during hot afternoons. Desert lupine seeds can be planted directly outdoors in the fall or stratified (pre-treated) and planted in early spring. Before planting, rub the seeds lightly with sandpaper to break through the hard outer coating. You can also soak the seeds in warm water overnight. Loosen the soil before planting to allow space for the long taproot, and cover the seeds with about 1/2 inch of soil. Water sparingly until the seeds have germinated.

Desert lupine plants do not like to have their roots disturbed and do not transplant well. Therefore, it is important to plant them where you want them to remain.

Desert Lupine Plant Care

Desert lupine seedlings are slow growers. Water them lightly as needed and protect them from frost. Once mature, desert lupine plants are drought tolerant. However, they will benefit from occasional irrigation during dry weather. Feed desert lupines lightly once per month during the growing season using a general-purpose fertilizer. Like other lupine plants, they fix nitrogen in the soil, making them good companions for nitrogen-loving plants. To encourage prolific blooming throughout the season, pinch wilted flowers.

Additional Tips for Growing Desert Lupines

Choose a planting site with well-drained soil and full sun or light shade.
Plant seeds in the fall or early spring after stratification.
Water sparingly and protect seedlings from frost.
Once established, desert lupines are drought tolerant but will benefit from occasional irrigation.
Fertilize lightly once per month during the growing season.
Pinch wilted flowers to encourage continued blooming.

With proper care, desert lupine plants will thrive in your garden, providing a beautiful and beneficial addition to your landscape.

Flower Gardening

Tidy Tips Wildflowers: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Caring for These Easy-to-Grow Beauties

by Gregory September 7, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Tidy Tips Wildflowers: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Tidy tips wildflowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any sunny landscape, especially in areas with poor soil. These annual flowering plants produce daisy-like blooms on succulent stems, making them drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.

Layia Tidy Tips Info

Tidy tips wildflowers are members of the Aster family, botanically known as Layia platyglossa. There is also a type called Fremont’s tidy tips (Layia fremontii). Both types have yellow flowers with white edges and are native to California. They are known for their salt tolerance and preference for grassy, coastal areas.

Growing Tidy Tips

Growing tidy tips is simple. Here are the steps:

Planting: Broadcast seeds onto poor soil with good drainage. Cover the seeds lightly, as they need light to germinate.
Germination: The optimum temperature for germination is 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius). Cover the seeds with a screen until they sprout to protect them from birds. Seeds usually germinate in 10 to 30 days.
Watering: Water the seeds regularly until they sprout and start to grow. Remove the screen and continue watering if it doesn’t rain.
Reseed: Any seeds that are left will likely reseed the following year, providing you with more of these beautiful flowers.

Care for Tidy Tips Flowers

Caring for tidy tips flowers is minimal. Here are a few tips:

Avoid rich soil: Planting tidy tips in soil that is too rich can result in leggy plants with lush foliage but few blooms.
Prune: If your tidy tips plants become leggy, you can prune them to encourage bushier growth.
Attract birds: Tidy tips are a great way to attract birds to your neighborhood. Provide feeders to keep them from taking all of your seeds.
Collect seeds: If you want to continue growing tidy tips in future years, collect the seeds before the birds take them all.

Uses for Tidy Tips

The uses for tidy tips in the landscape are limited only by your imagination and the availability of sunny areas with poor soil. Here are a few ideas:

Groundcover: Tidy tips are a low-growing plant that makes a great groundcover for sunny areas.
Borders: Tidy tips can be used to create borders along paths or flower beds.
Rock gardens: Tidy tips are well-suited for rock gardens, as they can tolerate poor soil and drought conditions.
Cut flowers: Tidy tips make excellent cut flowers for indoor displays.

Conclusion

Tidy tips wildflowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any sunny landscape. With their drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements, they are a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Gardening

Chinese Juniper: The Versatile Evergreen for Your Garden

by Gregory August 30, 2024

written by Gregory 5 minutes read

Chinese Juniper: A Versatile Evergreen for Your Garden

Chinese juniper is a popular evergreen shrub or small tree that is known for its adaptability, drought tolerance, and low maintenance requirements. It is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscaping applications, from groundcovers to hedges to specimen plants.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are many different varieties of Chinese juniper available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

‘Pfitzeriana’: A low-growing variety that is often used as a groundcover or in rock gardens.
‘Blue Point’: A compact variety with silvery-blue foliage that is perfect for small spaces.
‘Hetzii’: A columnar variety that is ideal for use as a screen or hedge.
‘Torulosa’: A weeping variety with graceful, arching branches.

When choosing a variety of Chinese juniper, it is important to consider the size, shape, and growth habit of the plant. You should also consider the climate in your area and the amount of sun and water that the plant will receive.

Planting and Spacing

Chinese juniper prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is important to space the plants far enough apart so that they have room to grow to their full size. The spacing will vary depending on the variety of Chinese juniper that you choose.

Watering and Fertilizing

Chinese juniper is a drought-tolerant plant, but it will benefit from regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilize the plants once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pruning

Chinese juniper does not require a lot of pruning, but it can be pruned to shape or remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring.

Pest and Disease Control

Chinese juniper is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Using as a Screen or Hedge

Chinese juniper is a great choice for use as a screen or hedge. The dense foliage provides privacy and can help to block wind and noise. When planting a hedge, space the plants 2-3 feet apart.

Planting in Borders or Containers

Chinese juniper can also be used in borders or containers. When planting in a border, space the plants 3-4 feet apart. When planting in a container, use a well-drained potting mix and choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Growing Chinese Juniper in the Garden

Chinese juniper is a versatile and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for a variety of landscaping applications. With its drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and attractive foliage, Chinese juniper is a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Choosing the Best Chinese Juniper Variety for Your Needs

There are many different varieties of Chinese juniper available, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Consider the size, shape, and growth habit of the plant, as well as the climate in your area and the amount of sun and water that the plant will receive.

Growing Chinese Juniper as a Groundcover

Chinese juniper is a great choice for use as a groundcover. The low-growing varieties are perfect for planting under trees or shrubs, or in rock gardens. Chinese juniper is also drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for areas that receive less water.

Drought-Tolerant Landscaping with Chinese Juniper

Chinese juniper is a drought-tolerant plant, making it a good choice for landscaping in areas that receive less water. Chinese juniper can be used in a variety of landscaping applications, from groundcovers to hedges to specimen plants.

Evergreen Shrubs that Require Minimal Maintenance

Chinese juniper is an evergreen shrub that requires minimal maintenance. It is drought-tolerant and does not require a lot of pruning. Chinese juniper is a great choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance plant that will add beauty to their landscape.

No-Fuss Plants for Busy Gardeners

Chinese juniper is a no-fuss plant that is perfect for busy gardeners. It is drought-tolerant and does not require a lot of pruning. Chinese juniper is a great choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance plant that will add beauty to their landscape.

Planting a Chinese Juniper Screen or Hedge

Chinese juniper is a great choice for use as a screen or hedge. The dense foliage provides privacy and can help to block wind and noise. When planting a hedge, space the plants 2-3 feet apart.

Growing Chinese Juniper in Containers

Chinese juniper can also be grown in containers. This makes it a great choice for gardeners who live in apartments or have limited space. When planting in a container, use a well-drained potting mix and choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Gardening

Growing and Caring for Snow in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Donna June 30, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Growing and Caring for Snow in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Snow in summer, also known as Cerastium tomentosum, is a beautiful and easy-to-grow ground cover plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to grow and care for snow in summer successfully.

Characteristics of Snow in Summer

Snow in summer is an herbaceous perennial that forms a dense mat of silvery-grey foliage. In late spring and early summer, it produces a mass of white flowers that resemble snow, hence its common name. It is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-draining soil and full sun.

Growing Snow in Summer

Snow in summer is best grown as a ground cover plant in gravel or rock gardens, or in gaps within stone walls. It is easy to grow and can spread quickly, so it may require some management to prevent it from becoming invasive.

Where to Plant: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water well.
Spacing: Plant snow in summer about 12 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Fertilize snow in summer lightly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Caring for Snow in Summer

Snow in summer is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care.

Pruning: Remove flower stems after flowering to prevent self-seeding and control the spread of the plant. You can also trim back any unruly growth as needed.
Dividing: Divide snow in summer immediately after flowering to propagate new plants. Simply dig up the plant, divide it into sections using a spade, and replant each section in a new location.
Pests and Diseases: Snow in summer is generally pest- and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal issues or root rot if grown in damp conditions.

Propagating Snow in Summer

Snow in summer can be propagated by division, seed, or runners.

Division: Divide snow in summer immediately after flowering.
Seed: Sow snow in summer seeds directly into the ground in the spring. Seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
Runners: Snow in summer spreads by producing runners. You can lift these runners and plant them in another part of your garden.

Buying Snow in Summer

You can purchase snow in summer plants from your local garden center or nursery, or online. Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.

Conclusion

Snow in summer is a beautiful and versatile ground cover plant that is easy to grow and care for. With its silvery-grey foliage and delicate white flowers, it adds a touch of elegance to any garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy the beauty of snow in summer for years to come.

Gardening

White Clover: Benefits, Uses, and How to Grow It

by Gregory June 28, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

White Clover: A Versatile Plant for Lawns, Wildlife, and More

Introduction

White clover (Trifolium repens) is a common plant found in lawns, fields, and roadsides. It is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years. White clover is a member of the pea family (Fabaceae) and is closely related to alfalfa and clover.

Physical Characteristics

White clover forms creeping mats of vegetation with small, three-lobed leaves. Occasionally, four-lobed leaves occur, which are known as “lucky” four-leaf clovers. The flowers of white clover are rounded heads made up of many tiny, tubular blooms. They are mostly white in color, but some varieties may have pink or cream tinges.

Growing Conditions

White clover is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers sunny sites and well-drained soils, but it can also tolerate partial shade and moist soils. White clover is drought-tolerant and can even survive in poor-quality soils.

Benefits for Lawns

White clover is often considered a weed in lawns, but it can actually have some benefits. White clover can help to improve the soil by adding nitrogen to it. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plants, and it helps them to grow healthy and green. White clover can also help to crowd out other weeds, such as dandelions and crabgrass.

Benefits for Wildlife

The flowers of white clover are a valuable food source for bees, particularly bumblebees. Bees collect nectar and pollen from the flowers, which they use to make honey and feed their young. White clover is also a good food source for other insects, such as butterflies and moths.

The leaves of white clover are rich in protein and are a valuable food source for small mammals, such as mice and rabbits. When other food sources are scarce, white clover can provide essential nutrition for these animals.

Other Uses

In addition to its benefits for lawns and wildlife, white clover has also been used for other purposes throughout history. White clover flowers were once a popular sweet treat with children, who pulled the flowers from the plants and sucked the bases for tiny drops of sweet nectar. This has led to white clover having other common names, including bee-bread, honeystalks, and honeysuckle grass.

White clover has also been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and sore throats. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these uses.

Planting and Care

White clover is a relatively easy plant to grow. It can be sown from seed in the spring or fall. White clover can also be propagated by dividing existing plants.

Once established, white clover requires very little care. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in poor soils. However, white clover does benefit from occasional watering and fertilizing.

Conclusion

White clover is a versatile plant with a variety of benefits. It is a valuable food source for wildlife, it can help to improve the soil, and it can even be used as a natural sweetener. If you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that is beneficial to both your lawn and the environment, white clover is a great option.

Keyword Density

white clover: 3.1%
lawn weed: 0.4%
wildflower: 0.4%
creeping mats: 0.4%
three-lobed leaves: 0.4%
four-leaf clovers: 0.4%
tubular blooms: 0.4%
nitrogen: 0.4%
wildlife: 1.6%
drought: 0.4%
small mammals: 0.4%
mice: 0.4%
bees: 1.6%
bumblebees: 0.8%
pollen: 0.8%
nectar: 0.8%
bee-bread: 0.4%
honeystalks: 0.4%
honeysuckle grass: 0.4%
planting calendar: 0.4%
Trifolium and wildlife: 0.4%
Is Trifolium poisonous: 0.4%

Gardening

Drought-Proof Your Garden: Essential Tips for Surviving Hot, Dry Weather

by Gregory June 24, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Dealing with Drought in the Garden

Introduction

When the weather gets hot and dry, our gardens can suffer. But there are things we can do to help our plants survive.

Conserving Water

One of the most important things we can do is conserve water. This means watering our plants less often, but more deeply. We can also mulch around our plants to help keep the soil moist.

Choosing Drought-Tolerant Plants

Another way to save water is to choose plants that are drought-tolerant. These plants are naturally adapted to dry conditions and don’t need as much water.

Watering Techniques

When we do water our plants, it’s important to do it effectively. This means watering at the base of the plant, where the roots are. We should also water early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is less intense.

Weeding

Weeds compete with our plants for water, so it’s important to keep up with weeding. This will help ensure that our plants get the water they need.

Holiday-Proofing

If we’re going on vacation, we need to make sure our plants will be taken care of. We can ask a neighbor to water them, or we can install an automatic watering system.

Preparing for Future Droughts

If we’ve been caught off guard by drought in the past, we can take steps to prepare for future droughts. This includes saving rainwater, mulching our gardens, and choosing drought-tolerant plants.

By following these tips, we can help our gardens survive even the driest conditions.

Gardening

Drought-Tolerant Plants: The Ultimate Guide for Dry Gardens

by Gregory June 14, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Drought-Tolerant Plants: A Guide for Dry Gardens

What are Drought-Tolerant Plants?

Drought-tolerant plants are specially adapted to survive in dry conditions with little rainfall. They have evolved to thrive in dry soils and can withstand long periods without water. These plants are often native to dry regions like the Mediterranean.

Benefits of Growing Drought-Tolerant Plants

Water conservation: Drought-tolerant plants help you save water, especially during droughts or hosepipe bans.
Low maintenance: These plants are easy to care for and don’t need frequent watering.
Attractive gardens: Drought-tolerant plants can create beautiful gardens even in dry conditions.

Best Drought-Tolerant Plants for Your Garden

Agapanthus: Compact with white or blue flowers.
Anchusa azurea: Bright blue flowers that bloom in late spring.
Cotyledon orbiculata: Unique succulent with large, fleshy leaves and bell-shaped flowers.
Geums: Hardy perennials with colorful flowers that bloom from May to August.
Hardy geraniums: Long-flowering perennials that come in a variety of colors.
Bearded irises: Showy flowers that prefer a sunny spot.
Stipa tenuissima: Ornamental grass with a compact, evergreen habit.
Nepeta: Violet-blue flowers that attract bees.
Pittosporum: Evergreen shrubs with dark foliage.
Trachelospermum jasminoides: Beautiful climber with fragrant white flowers.
Sea hollies: Tough plants with silvery leaves and long tap roots.
Verbascums: Tall, stately plants with woolly leaves and yellow flowers.
Artemisia: Aromatic plants with silvery, finely cut leaves.
Sedums: Succulents that produce clusters of flowers in late summer and autumn.

Tips for Choosing and Growing Drought-Tolerant Plants

Check plants for damage before planting.
Research plants before buying to ensure they are truly drought-tolerant.
Water plants regularly until they establish a good root system.
Consider planting drought-tolerant plants in sunny borders, dry soil areas, or gravel gardens.

Conclusion

Drought-tolerant plants are a great choice for gardeners who want to conserve water, reduce maintenance, and create beautiful gardens even in dry conditions. With so many different types of drought-tolerant plants available, you can find the perfect plants to suit your garden and climate.

Houseplants

Snake Plants: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Care

by Gregory June 3, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow Snake Plants: A Guide for Beginners

What is a Snake Plant?

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue, are popular indoor plants with sword-like leaves. They are known for being low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.

Benefits of Growing Snake Plants

Purify the air
Add a touch of greenery to your home
Easy to care for, even for beginners
Toxic to pets, so keep out of reach

Choosing the Right Snake Plant

There are many different types of snake plants, so you can choose one that fits your space and style. Some popular varieties include:

Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’: The most common type, with gray-green leaves and a creamy-yellow border.
Sansevieria cylindrica (African spear): Smooth, cylindrical leaves with gray-green variegation.
Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Hahnii’ (bird’s nest snake plant): A compact plant with a rosette of leaves that resemble a bird’s nest.

How to Care for Snake Plants

Snake plants are very easy to care for. Here are some tips:

Light: Place your snake plant in a bright spot out of direct sunlight.
Water: Water only when the soil is completely dry.
Fertilizer: Feed your snake plant once a month during the growing season (April to September).
Repotting: Snake plants are slow growers and don’t need to be repotted often. Only repot when the roots are bursting out of the pot.

Troubleshooting Snake Plant Problems

Yellow leaves: Overwatering, especially in winter. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
Wrinkled leaves: Underwatering. Water your plant lightly over a few days.
Falling leaves: Under- or overwatering, or not enough light.
Mealybugs: White, fluffy insects on the undersides of leaves. Wipe them off with a damp cloth or cotton bud soaked in an insecticide.

Where to Buy Snake Plants

You can find snake plants at most garden centers and home improvement stores. You can also buy them online from retailers like Amazon and Etsy.

Conclusion

Snake plants are a great choice for beginner plant owners. They are easy to care for and can add a touch of greenery to any space. With a little care, your snake plant will thrive for years to come.

Gardening

Regional Gardening Chores for July: A Comprehensive Guide to Thriving in Different Climates

by Gregory May 16, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Regional Gardening Chores for July

Introduction

July is a busy month for gardeners across the country. The warm weather and sunshine are perfect for plant growth, but they can also bring challenges like drought and pests. To keep your garden thriving, it’s important to follow regional gardening chores for July.

Gardening in Different Regions

The best way to care for your garden is to follow the specific needs of your region. Here are some tips for gardening in different parts of the country:

Pacific Northwest

Weed regularly to give your plants space to grow.
Deadhead annual and perennial flowers to encourage new growth.
Harvest vegetables as they get to size to prevent them from losing flavor.

West

In Northern California, keep sowing heat-loving crops like tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers.
Feed brambles like raspberries and blackberries.
Spray grapevines to prevent mildew.
In Southern California and Nevada, plant citrus trees and tropical fruit crops.
Plan your fall garden.

Southwest

Water regularly and deeply, and use mulch to lock moisture into the soil.
Give young perennials and succulents some afternoon shade.

Northern Rockies and Plains

Water your plants frequently, especially during heat waves.
Water container plants more often, as they dry out quickly.
Turn your compost pile regularly.
Stop fertilizing perennials in late July to prevent new growth that could be damaged by frost in autumn.

Upper Midwest

Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
Check your automatic irrigation system to make sure it’s working properly.
Deadhead bulb plants when the flowers fade, but leave the leaves until they turn yellow.
Sow fall crops like peas in late July.

Ohio Valley

Water your garden well to prevent wilting and loss of crops.
Look out for groundhog and rabbit damage, and consider using fencing to protect your plants.
Buy on-sale annuals to nurture through summer and use in autumn beds.

Northeast

Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
Harvest all crops regularly, from vegetables to berries.
Check garden centers for on-sale annuals and nurture them through summer for planting in fall gardens.
Spray a natural soap and water mix on harmful bugs in your flower or vegetable garden.

Southeast

Water your plants regularly unless heavy rain is falling.
Look out for fungal diseases during rainy periods.
Thin flowers and crops to allow air circulation.
Water in the mornings so that the leaves are dry by evening to prevent disease.
Weed in early morning or evening to avoid the hottest sun.

South Central

Water your plants deeply and regularly during heat waves.
Sharpen your mower blade to prevent damage to your grass during dry spells.
Mow your grass at a higher setting to help it withstand drought.
Prune waterspouts from fruit trees.

Tips for Dealing with Heat and Drought

Water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
Use mulch around your plants to help retain moisture.
Provide shade for your plants during the hottest part of the day.
Use drought-tolerant plants in areas that receive less rainfall.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Inspect your plants regularly for pests and diseases.
Use natural methods to control pests, such as companion planting and beneficial insects.
Remove diseased plants from your garden to prevent the spread of disease.

Harvesting Your Crops

Harvest vegetables and fruits when they are ripe.
Store your harvested crops properly to extend their shelf life.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

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