6 Summer Planting Tips From Landscapers Near Me in Middleton, WI

Plants are known to bring joy to your yard and to all those who visit it. It can be difficult to keep your plants thriving throughout the summertime, with some days of high heat and afternoons of downpouring rain. With the right planning, attention and care, you can keep all of your plants healthy and lush throughout the season. Here are six summer planting tips from landscapers near me in Middleton, WI.

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Watering

Correct watering is the key to healthy plants in all growing seasons. Give your plants a thorough soak; avoid quick, frequent showers, and instead opt for a long and steady soak two or three times per week for the soil to fully absorb the water. On a daily basis, monitor the moisture level underneath top layer of soil as a guide to determine if your plants need slightly more or less water. When adding new plants to your garden beds, first water the plant in the pot until it is thoroughly soaked through, then gently place it in a pre-moistened hole. 

Sprinklers or drip irrigation systems are a convenient way to water large areas, but also consider hand watering when you can, especially for plants that seem stressed. Hand watering is more direct, saves water, and allows you to monitor your plants more closely. If you choose to use sprinklers & drip systems, evaluate them to make sure they are well-maintained and working correctly. 

Water your plants  in the morning to help them hydrate before the heat of the day. Avoid watering midday or at night. During the heat of the day, the water will not soak into the soil well enough to fully hydrate your plants. At night, the warmth of soil from sitting in the sun all day, combined with the added moisture of watering could encourage unwanted fungus growth. 

Sun and Shade

Each individual plant will thrive in an area as close to its natural climate as possible. When planting, be mindful of which plants need more sun or ample shade. In addition, consider which plants will get the gentle morning sun and which will be exposed to the stronger midday and afternoon sun. Some plants thrive in that kind of heat, and others will stuffer. You also have the option to create shade for plants that need it, by planting a tree or shrubs, or installing shade sails.

Fertilizer

It is important to supplement the soil’s nutrients with fertilizer or plant feeder during these hot and difficult summer months. However, be sure not to fertilize during a heat wave. During a heat wave, plants are already stressed and can’t make use of the extra nutrients. In this situation, adding fertilizer may actually stress out your plants even more. Wait until the temperature returns to its normal condition to add fertilizer or plant food to your gardens. 

Pruning

Removing damaged leaves and stems tends to spur new growth. Similar to the guidelines for adding fertilizer, only prune plants under normal climate conditions. Pruning causes stress, and in a stressful environment it can be more harmful than helpful to the plant. Keep it light, and prune a little at a time to avoid shocking the plant.

Mulching

Spread mulch around plants to conserve water,  keep ground soil moist and insulate the ground to protect your plants during high temperatures. Mulch should be spread around your gardens at about three inches thick. Surround your plants, being mindful not to pile the mulch too heavily directly against your plants.

Pest Control

Both natural and chemical sprays are available to keep “bad bugs” off your plants. Learn what kinds of bugs are in your garden to be knowledgeable about which are helping your garden’s ecosystem, and which are hurting your plants. You can also set traps around your yard for flying insects that may be a threat to your garden.

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