Hey everyone! I love my garden, but the relentless summer heat (hitting 36-39 degrees almost daily) really takes a toll. My plants look so tired and dull, and though I do my best with watering and using slow-release fertilizer every few weeks, it feels like all my spring efforts are fading away as the summer drags on. I'm looking for any tips or tricks to bring some color back to my garden or suggestions for colorful leafy shrubs. Thanks! (I'm in North Africa, if that helps!)
3 Answers
You’re definitely not alone! I’m dealing with the same heat, but I live in a wetter climate. Even with lots of rain, the heat just drains everything. What works for me is replacing heat-sensitive shrubs with tough annuals like zinnias and cosmos that really stand up to the heat. Also, if you have potted plants, try moving them away from any heat sources like brick walls to reduce stress from extra heat. What kind of setup do you have—ground or pots?
I’m in southern Italy, and my garden definitely goes dormant during the summer heat as well. Fortunately, we’ve had a cooler July this year, but I still see a dip in production. Come September and October, things start to perk up a bit, especially my peppers.
I feel you! I’m planning to get a shade cloth for my plants next year because they’re struggling too. Right now, I just try to water the leaves to keep them cool, but it’s a temporary fix. Honestly, shade cloth might be the way to go!
Just a heads up, watering the soil is actually more effective. Plants don’t cool down from wet leaves, and you could burn them. Just keep that in mind!