In Toronto and other parts of Canada, summer can be harsh on a garden if it isn’t well protected. Do you have a plan to safeguard your garden? What method will you use? The most important step is to install an irrigation system to water the plants and create proper shading. Keep reading this blog-post and find out how to best shield your garden.
Retain Moisture
- Install an irrigation system
There are different types of irrigation systems such as traditional spray, drip and rotor. They can water the garden without issue. Each provides its own benefit.
- The traditional spray system features ground-level or pop-up heads that spray water in a full or half circle. But it can waste a lot of water, which is why they need to be installed at a fair distance from each head.
- The drip system features drippers, soakers, bubblers and micro-sprayers. They utilize a fraction of water and supply and ensure the soil absorbs water gradually.
- The rotor system is available in different types such as pop-up spray, impact, gear-driven and large turf. They are water-efficient like the drip system and release water at a slower rate.
- Use Mulch
Adding organic mulch to your garden soil can protect it from direct sunlight and allow the soil to stay wet longer. There are different forms of mulch available such as wood chips, peat moss, bark chips, grass clippings and straw mulch. The light-coloured options can reflect sunlight better. Darker mulch should be used around the shrubs.
Expert Tip : Wood mulch is a great option as it can safeguard the soil from the sun and break it down over time leading to compost.
- Use rainwater
Rainwater is the purest form of water filled with natural minerals that are good for the plants in your garden. In fact, this water is devoid of chemical to ensure plants thrive better in the heat. You can consider installing a rainwater tank to collect rainwater and use it for your garden.
- Water the plants in the morning
It’s always better to water your garden in the early morning to prevent the evaporation of water before it reaches the plants’ roots. Avoid midday or early afternoon watering as the heat is stronger then, which causes the soil to dry up quickly. If you miss watering your plants in the morning, then you can do it in the early evening as well.
- Water the plants using your hand
This is optional. Though the irrigation system waters your garden, it might leave behind a few specific areas which can be covered if you water them manually.
- Keep your lawn three to six inches long
Longer grass can provide shade to the soil helping it retain moisture. You can keep the grass at least three inches taller. However, during droughts, it’s better to keep the grass six inches taller.
- Avoid overwatering
Overwatered plants can lead to leaf wilt as heat and sun exposure can cause transpiration. In fact, when the plants are watered more than required, the extra moisture in the soil can form bacteria, decrease the oxygen supply and cause fungal diseases to flourish.
- Weed your garden frequently
If you don’t get rid of the pesky weeds, then they can soak up all the moisture leaving little for the plants. It’s best to weed your garden once a week or at least twice a month.
Provide Shade
- Plant your garden in a shady space
It’s very important to ensure your garden has enough shade. Growing your garden closer to the tallest tree near your house is such an example.
- Utilize shade covers
You can also choose shade covers such as old window screens, narrow panels of wood lattice and old sheets to block the entry of sunlight. But make sure that the cover is placed several inches above the plants.
- Use a patio umbrella to provide shade
Do you have a small garden? If so, then a patio umbrella is all you need to cover it. It is one of the easiest ways to provide shade.
- Build a fence
This is another way to shade your garden. Install a short section of fencing near your garden that can provide some shade over your plants.
These are some effective ways to protect your garden in the summer. From choosing the right irrigation system to watering your plants in the early morning; make sure you follow all the steps to ensure your garden looks nice and green even in hot weather.
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