Beat the Heat: Garden and Native Plant Tips from Pomona Expert

With a heatwave gripping Rockland, Bergen, and the Lower Hudson Valley, local gardens are feeling the challenge of keeping plants healthy in the scorching summer temperatures. But with the right care, plants can survive and even thrive despite the extreme heat. Down to Earth Living Garden Center in Pomona offers six tips to keep gardens healthy during the intense conditions.

1. Water Wisely

Watering is crucial during a heat wave but do it in the early morning hours so plants can absorb moisture before the day's heat intensifies. Deep watering is essential to ensure the water penetrates the soil and reaches the plant roots so gardeners are encouraged to water for longer than they might normally. However, avoid watering in the evening as it can lead to fungal growth.

2. Mulch to Retain Moisture

Mulch is a real hero during a heat wave. Applying a layer of mulch around plants helps keep moisture in the soil and keeps roots hydrated and cool. Organic mulch, such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves, is particularly effective. Mulch also helps suppress weeds, which can compete with plants for water.

3. Avoid Fertilizing

During a heat wave, avoid fertilizing plants. Fertilizers can encourage new growth, which requires additional water and can stress plants further. It's best to wait until temperatures cool down to resume fertilizing.

4. Prune with Caution

Avoid heavy pruning during extreme heat. Pruning can stress plants and expose them to more sunlight, increasing water loss. If necessary, remove only dead or damaged parts of the plant to maintain its health.

5. Keep an Eye on Container Plants

Container plants can dry out quickly in the heat this includes hanging baskets. Check them twice a day, and water as needed. Consider moving them to a shadier spot if possible. Grouping pots together can also help create a microenvironment that retains moisture.

6. Monitor and Adjust

Pay close attention to plants during a heat wave. Look for signs of stress, such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or crispy edges. Adjust care as needed to keep plants healthy during this stressful time. With proper care, your garden can remain a healthy and happy despite the soaring temperatures.

Help for Garden Questions

Down to Earth Living encourages customers to visit them in Pomona and bring photos of their garden as well as any inspiration images they may have to receive help in planning their outdoor space. The experienced team can help homeowners select the right plants, shrubs, containers, statues and more to achieve the desired look. In addition to outdoor plants, trees and shrubs, Down to Earth has an expanded indoor plant showroom and free repotting is available with the purchase of a plant or pot.

Down to Earth Living, now in its 56th year, serves the Hudson Valley and Bergen County, offering 12.5 acres filled with perennials, flowers, shrubs, and trees, with new plants arriving weekly. The 10,000-square-foot showroom features a selection of contemporary, classic, traditional, and transitional teak, aluminum, and all-weather dining and deep-seated furniture. Down to Earth is located at 1040 Route 45 in Pomona, N.Y. For more information, call 845-354-8500 or visit www.dteliving.com.

# # #