Gardening in August in Arizona requires special attention due to the extreme heat. Here are some tips to help your garden thrive during this challenging month:
Watering
- Deep Watering: Ensure plants receive deep watering to encourage roots to grow deeper. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
- Check Irrigation Systems: Make sure your irrigation system is working efficiently and adjust timers to provide adequate water for the intense heat.
- Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep the soil cooler.
Soil and Fertilization
- Soil Amendments: Add organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and moisture retention.
- Fertilizing: Lightly fertilize plants that are actively growing, but avoid heavy feeding as plants are stressed by the heat.
Plant Care
- Pruning: Trim back dead or damaged growth to reduce stress on plants and improve air circulation.
- Shade: Provide temporary shade for young or sensitive plants using shade cloths, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Weeding: Keep the garden free of weeds, which can compete with your plants for water and nutrients.
Pest and Disease Management
- Pest Monitoring: Keep an eye out for pests that may be more active in the heat and take appropriate measures to control them.
- Disease Prevention: Ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal diseases, which can be exacerbated by high humidity and heat.
Planting
- Fall Vegetables: Start seeds indoors for cool-season vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, so they will be ready to transplant when temperatures cool down.
- Perennials and Shrubs: Late August can be a good time to plant perennials and shrubs, giving them time to establish roots before the cooler fall weather.
Lawn Care
- Mowing: Mow the lawn at a higher setting to reduce stress on the grass and help shade the soil.
- Watering: Ensure the lawn receives adequate water, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to shallow root systems and disease.
General Tips
- Hydration: Stay hydrated and take breaks when working outside during the hottest parts of the day.
- Tool Maintenance: Keep gardening tools clean and sharp to make tasks easier and more efficient.
By following these tips, you can help your garden survive and even thrive during the harsh conditions of an Arizona August.
A&P Nursery For All Your Gardening Needs
With 4 east valley locations our team can help you find the perfect trees and plants to take your landscape from ordinary to extraordinary. In addition to selling trees and plants we partner with companies that will plant your trees or plants and care for them as long as you wish. That means all you need to do to get your landscape looking it’s best is stop by and browse our trees, choose your favorite, and leave the rest of the work to the pros.
Call or stop by one of our 4 locations today!
