It’s officially summer, which means it’s time to fire up the grill, get outside and enjoy warm weather. But while you can roast pineapples and corn on the cob without much thought, your garden is another story, which is why we’re plating up the best tips for your summer garden.
Summer means long hours in the sun that can quickly cause sunburn and damage plants. So, whether you garden professionally or still deciding what vegetables to plant now, here’s how to take care of your plants this summer.
1. Budding plants need your attention
While your home decor is a big part of what makes your home, your garden is more high-maintenance.
As the weather heats up, it’s important to remember that some plants are still at their most vulnerable. For example, budding plants are more at risk of shedding their buds or flowers before blooming and giving you the fruit of your efforts.
If you have budding plants, like a rosebush or a bougainvillaea, make sure to water them at least once a week. If they’re in a container, you can also add some fertiliser to help them grow.
Lightly mulch your plants as it is a natural blanket during extreme temperatures, thus keeping the soil cool in the summer heat. Covering your soil with organic matter and grass clippings will also help suppress weeds.
2. Save potted plants from overheating
If you have potted plants in your yard or on your patio, chances are you have to worry about keeping them cool enough. Watering your plants each day isn’t enough – the heat can easily exceed their ability to cool down.
When the harsh summer sun is beating down on your potted plants, it can cause their roots to dry out. Pot plants need to be watered regularly. Maintain the soil moisture so that the roots are not exposed to dry soil. However, avoid watering too much as this can encourage root rot and other problems.
Also make sure that your pot plant is placed in an area where it does not get too much direct sunlight, especially western sunlight (this can scorch the leaves).
3. Water your garden in cool hours
Watering your lawn long when temperatures are at their highest, like in mid and late summer, can damage plants. The best time to water early is in the morning, allowing enough time for the leaves to dry off before sunset. This helps prevent fungus and mosquito bites!
If you have plants that are often attacked by mildew, you can treat them with a solution of one part cow’s milk to 10 parts water. Spritz the solution on your plants once a week during the plant growing season for an all-natural and inexpensive preventative treatment.
Besides, also check your irrigation systems and ensure there is nothing blocking their water flow.
4. Add soluble fertiliser in water
If you’re watering less than usual, try to water plants deeply and feed them at the same time. Use a soluble or slow-release fertiliser that includes added seaweed, which will help to improve fruiting and flavour.
Potash is also an essential plant nutrient, so give it to fruit trees, especially citrus, lychee, and banana. Besides, potash helps to promote the growth of lush greenery and strong fruit production while fighting anthracnose disease of avocado and mango, as well as helping plants combat foliar fungi.
5. Shelter new plantings
Vegetable and flower seedlings need some sun hardening before planting in the garden. Don’t leave them outside in the full sun too early as they may wilt and die.
To prevent this, cover them with 50 percent shade cloth, dead palm fronds or net curtains for one to two weeks before planting out.
6. Keep pests at bay
Termites are a critical part of the Australian environment and perform similar functions as earthworms. They increase soil activity, improve water quality, and build humus in the topsoil.
Many species are fairly harmless as they only attack dead trees in their natural habitat. Pest species may be attracted to the soil, particularly if it’s moist or rich in nutrients. To prevent this, keep garden tools with wooden handles off the ground and keep the soil dry in this zone.
7. Get rid of excess small fruit
Regular pruning and thinning are vital parts of vegetable gardening. It allows nutrients to be spread throughout the plant, which helps the remaining fruits and vegetables reach their full potential. So, it will prevent undersized root vegetables like carrots, parsnips and turnips during harvest.
8. Veggies and flowering plants – a perfect combo
There’s nothing wrong with planting something just because it looks nice, and a patch of flowers alongside your veggies can make them look fantastic.
Planting flowers alongside your veggie garden beds will liven it up and attract the bees, butterflies and other insects that will help pollinate your plants. You can choose from a variety of ageratum, marigolds, petunias, verbena, phlox, and celosia.
FAQs on summer gardening
What do you put in a summer garden?
First off, when it comes to what to put in a summer garden, the possibilities are endless. From vibrant flowers to juicy fruits to delicious vegetables, the choice is yours. Some popular options for summer include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, beans, and corn. You can also include herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary to add some flavorful variety to your garden.
What is the best plant for summer?
Now, if you’re looking for the best plant for summer, it really depends on your personal preferences and the climate where you live. However, some tried and true options include sunflowers, marigolds, petunias, and zinnias. These colorful blooms are sure to add a pop of brightness to any summer garden.
How do you make a summer garden?
When it comes to making a summer garden, there are a few key steps to keep in mind. First, choose a location with plenty of sunlight and good soil drainage. Then, decide on what plants you want to include and create a plan for spacing them out. Finally, make sure to water and care for your garden regularly to ensure healthy growth.
What are summer vegetables in Australia?
Now, let’s talk about summer vegetables in Australia. Some popular options include beans, eggplants, okra, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes. You can also grow leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, as well as herbs like mint and parsley.
What can you plant in summer in Australia?
If you’re wondering what plants grow in summer in Australia, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options. In addition to the vegetables and herbs mentioned above, you can also grow flowers like daisies, geraniums, and impatiens.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try growing exotic plants like dragon fruit or pineapple.
Wrapping up on summer gardens
The summer garden is ideal for plant growing, getting your hands dirty and embracing the natural rhythm of the seasons.
If you won’t have time for ongoing care in spring, try container plantings or start your plants indoors.
Once you’ve planted your garden, keep it well-watered and take time to enjoy it! One other important tip is keeping the soil cool.
We hope with these best tips for your summer garden, you’ll have fun creating a beautiful and bountiful summer garden that looks gorgeous all season long!
