Author: Aqua Gardening

Aqua Gardening’s Top 10 Tips For Gardening In Summer

Summertime can present some challenges for your plants due to the increases in temperatures. However, with some easy fixes, you can reduce the stress on the plants and enjoy a good harvest during the summer months. Check out our top 10 tips for gardening in summer below.

1
Prepare in the cooler months

While it is cooler in November, take the opportunity to do the hardest work like tidying up the garden and preparing for new crops. Check all of your plumbing fittings are secured and there are no leaks.

2
Garden when it is cool

Do the work in your garden when it is cool so you take more care and more notice of your plants.

3
Water in the morning

Water your plants at lights on or in the morning just as the plants are waking up. This gives them a head start for the day and reduces the chances of fungi and pests in the rootzone (not applicable for aquaponics!)

4
Prevent pests

When you see bugs eating your plants, don’t reach for the pesticide. See our range of preventative measures which can help to stop bugs before the become a problem. We also stock a range of organic pesticides which are safe for humans and animals.

5
Plant heat loving plants

Plant out heat loving plants like okra, rosella, snake beans and eggplant. Cover seedlings with 30-50% shadecloth.

6
Plant the regulars

It is also a good time to plant regulars such as sweet corn, capsicums, chillis, pumpkins, cucumbers, leeks, melons and tomatoes. Make sure you choose heat tolerant varieties of tomatoes and any other vegetables you want to grow.

7
Monitor your water levels

Keep an eye on your water reservoir or fish tank - in the heat your plants can drink many times more water than they do in winter.

8
Change the position of potted plants

Rotate the locations of potted plants - they can share the positions of sunny and shady, and they will thank you for it.

9
Insulate plants using perlite

Add perlite to the tops of your pots to prevent the media heating up and stressing the plant’s root zone.

10
Apply foliar treatments in the evening

Apply foliar treatments in the evening or before lights out to prevent leaf burn.