As the summer season dials it up a notch and we find ourselves in the midst of a full on heat wave (as we do this week), it is helpful to A. stay inside mid-day and B. follow some tips on how to help your garden look its best even in extreme heat.
Watering: New plantings benefit from regular watering (1" or more per week) for the first month and as needed after that. This usually translates to watering for 30-60 minutes depending on your water pressure. Set your sprinkler (and we like a model like this or this that doesn't waste a lot of water by shooting it up into the air 10') in your garden and move it around to make sure to soak the entire area. You can test your soil by gently digging with a trowel or garden knife to see how far down the water is going. Deeper less frequent waterings are always best.
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While native plants famously have veeeery deep roots —the little guys that have just been planted do not. Keep an eye on them.
Mulching: If you notice that your soil is super dry and cracking, a thin layer of coarsely ground natural wood mulch may be helpful. We like the large chunk mulch as it stays on the surface, doesn't break down too quickly, and helps to conserve moisture in the soil. Check with your city or village agency to see if they have a pick-up spot for free mulch. City of Chicago has mountains of mulch (and stumps and limbs too) at 5333 N Western Avenue and other spots around the City. Bring your bags and bins and fill 'er up.
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You can do this naturally by leaving all of last year's leaves, stems (any logs that may have rolled in 😊) or other organic material in your garden. It is a beautiful aesthetic and does wonders for the soil and your plants!
How you plant makes a difference: Choose native plant species that are a good match for your garden conditions. If you have a full sun spot next to a south facing brick wall, choose species such as Echinacea pallida, Sporobolus heterolepis, Baptisia bracteata, Asclepias tuberosa among others that once established can weather hot dry conditions. Planting close together (12" spacing is generally recommended) will help shade and cool the soil, conserve moisture, outcompete undesired species —all while looking beautiful and full. Winner, Winner!
So, that's it in a nut shell —or Baptisia pod as the case may be.
Get your gardening done early in the day, drink plenty of water and be mindful of how your body is feeling on these super hot days.
(Pictured above: Baptisia bracteata and Sporobolus heterolepis)