A Northwest heat wave hit last week - triple digits. I felt so bad for my plants who were just stuck out there, no way to come into the AC. Some of them, like the hydrangea, were drooping and singed, no matter how much water they got. Some plants, like the basil and bee balm (pictured), literally smiled into the sun. They've probably been waiting for something like this.For me, last week was scary and a lot of work. I watered as if I were in the ER room trying to keep my patients alive — and I guess that's not too far off. Despite the work, most plants stayed hydrated, and all my patients came through, but a couple who are still recovering will be moved to better locations.
Here are a few tips for watering in the heat.
• When watering, soak thoroughly. Watering deeply is better than watering often.
• On a hot day, avoid getting water on the the leaves. It can burn them. Water at the base of the plant.
• If you're not sure if they are watered fully, test. A low tech method is to stick you finger in the soil and see how deep you have watered.
• Water early. Lots of water evaporates in the hot hours.
• Don't wait for the plant to look terrible before you water. Just like humans, it's better to stay hydrated that deal with heat stroke.
Hope all your plants made it. If you have any tips for summer watering, feel free to add them.