In late summer I always find a few plants in my garden showing signs of stress from multiple days of sunshine and the return of summer drought.
Since I added so many new plants to the garden this spring, I will continue to water through the summer to keep my garden looking its best. However, for the long-term health and care of my garden, I try not to over-water in any season, including summer.
By this, I mean that I give my planting beds and flowering borders enough water to thrive in the summer months but not so much that the plants come to rely on an unnatural, overabundant water schedule merely to survive. I have learned from mentors and from experience that it is best to water deeply and less frequently. With the exception of pots, planters and seasonal displays, I cut back on a daily summer watering schedule for most garden plants.
In our modified Mediterranean climate, the cycle of wet months and dry months is the normal state of things.
One of the advantages of a climate with continuous winter rain is that it helps plants prepare to withstand a period of summer drought. Even so, during a series of hot, dry days, we can expect perennial plants in full sun to display a slight droop by late afternoon. Healthy plants will return to their rigid stature later in the evening or at least by the next morning.
Pay special attention to the water needs of any trees, shrubs and other plants that were planted within the last year.
New plants with limited root systems need enough water to become established. This is most important in the first season after planting but can remain critical into the second and sometimes even the third year if weather conditions have been poor and root expansion is slow. Frequent watering may be necessary in a plant’s first season in the garden.
During very dry, hot weather, one complete watering each week should be enough to stave off plant damage. Regular deep, thorough soaking of individual plants or plant beds is preferable to infrequent heavy watering or frequent light watering.
In certain situations, a few especially valuable plants should be watered individually during stress periods while the rest of the area is not given any extra irrigation.
Mulching, shade, efficient irrigation and hardscape surfaces can be used to make the established landscape, as well as a new landscape, more water efficient. Since we can expect this same drought condition every year in our Northwest gardens, it makes sense to establish the groundwork for an efficient system as soon as possible.
By this time of year even the longest blooming late spring plants have faded from the garden. Cut the flowering stems of these plants back to good foliage for a better overall appearance.
Many early summer perennials take a break after their first flush of bloom. These plants benefit from cutting back the spent flower stems. If you do so, they may rebloom when weather cools in September and October.
As much as I enjoy adding new plants to the garden, now is the time to monitor watering needs, not to put in new plants. In the same breath, I have to admit that two weeks ago I sowed a second batch of nasturtium seeds. They are just now emerging in some of the flower beds.
Nasturtiums do not require a lot of water, but any emerging seedlings need special attention for the first few weeks of growth, at least up until they begin to flower.
So, I will carry around a watering can with a nozzle that allows a soft, earth soaking flow for these special-need plants. I like to plant my nasturtiums late, to fill the upcoming gap between summer and fall. Their flowers add a jolt of energy to the garden with bright, golden-hued yellows, reds and oranges.
These long summer days, with daylight lasting until 9:30 p.m., pass so quickly.
To make your garden minutes count, get in the habit of harvesting vegetables and herbs as a part of your evening meal preparation. A patch of garlic chives will add a heady bite to family meals and continue in the garden for many years. A few freshly picked bush beans, a sprig of parsley and a handful of strawberries not only enhance your meal but also give you one more chance to putter around in the garden.
Robb Rosser is a WSU-certified Master Gardener. Reach him at Write2Robb@aol.com.
