Garden Pests & Summer Heat

These notations are taken from GARDEN NOTES which is written by Justin W. Hancock, who is the Garden Editor for Better Homes and Gardens. As always, he gives us useful ideas and sugestions to have a happier, healthier garden.





Stop Garden Pests

This is the start of a 3-week series of tips to help you keep your garden safe from weeds, deer, bunnies, bugs, and other pests. Week 1 is about weeds. Check back next week for tips on saving your yard from critters.

Weed Control Guide
15 Tips for a Weed-Free Garden
Smother Weeds with Mulch







Survive Summer Heat

It's hot outside, and the heat can be as much a burden to plants as it is for you. Help your plants by making sure they're watered adequately and there's a layer of mulch over the soil to help keep their roots a little cooler. For more tips, check out these links.


Container Plants That Take the Heat
The 15 Top Low-Water Plants
Tips for Using Less Water
Easy-Care, Heat-Tolerant Garden Plan





Make the Most of Shade

When I have to be out in the yard on hot, sunny days, I make the most of it by working in the shade. It can make things complicated (like weeding one garden bed, then taking a break and waiting a couple of hours for the sun to move so I can work in another shaded area). Try these tips for making the most of your shade.

The Best Perennials for Shade
10 Beautiful Shade-Garden Plans
Wishbone Flower: A Great Annual for Shade
Find More Shade Plants with Plant Finder






Question of the Week
How to Keep Your Lawn Green

Question:


How can I keep my Kentucky bluegrassgreen if there's a drought this summer?



Answer:


The easiest way to keep your cool-season lawn green during the hot months is to keep it watered. But that can be expensive and time-consuming.



Letting your lawn stop growing and turn brown in midsummer won't hurt it. The grass copes with hot, dry weather by taking a summer siesta before greening up again as soon as rain and slightly cooler temperatures return. If you don't like the look of a dormant lawn, look for turf paints that ensure the green appearance during summer's heat or winter's cold at local sports-supply stores or online. Mix the paint with water according to directions and spray it on your lawn. The average application lasts about 6 weeks. If you paint your lawn, allow it to go dormant and do not water it. Click here for more on lawn care.