Written by Mary Mattiace, UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener
Florida is experiencing a heatwave but the all-time state record of 109°F remains unbroken. You can’t make me believe that. I have seen some thermometers around my yard and house read 112°F, however, Hot is Hot whether it is 90 or 109°F!
Are you and your plants wilting in these dogdays of summer? If the answer is yes, then I have some tips for you.
Water, water, water…
Whether you’re a human or a plant, water is needed for health and well-being.
Humans need consistent water consumption to regulate their body temperature and keep their organs working at their best, same with your plants.
Plants lose moisture through their leaves (body) by transpiration (sweat) and need consistent watering to stay alive in high heat, same as humans.
For You and your garden:
- Water bottle and/or hose always nearby
- Garden early, early in the day to avoid the extreme heat; don’t water or irrigate after 10am.
- Put yourself in some shade along with your plants.
Heat doesn’t have to mean you need to stay inside and neglect your garden. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress in yourself. i.e. faint, dizzy, excessive sweating and/or rapid heartbeat. Your plants signs of heat stress are drooping, brown leaves, losing leaves and foliage. Paying attention to these signs for you and your plants will keep both you and the garden thriving through the hottest days.
Remember, drink to this……water, water, water.
https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/weather/heat-safety/
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