JACKSON, Wyo. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released a number of tips on how to prepare gardens for the increasing summer temperatures.
Although every garden is different, some standard practices that can help keep plants cool in the heat include:
- Adding a fresh layer of mulch to keep soil temperatures low and help retain water
- Watering early in the morning and considering increasing the amount
- Avoiding watering plants overhead, as water on the leaves may cause them to burn
- Moving container plants to shadier areas or indoors
- Covering more delicate plants with shade cloth
The USDA also encourages those gardening to stay hydrated, use sunscreen and wear light colors in the heat.
