"Whilst August yet wears her golden crown,
Ripening fields lush-bright with promise;
Summer waxes long, then wanes quietly passing
Her fading green glory on to riotous Autumn."
~ Michelle L. Thieme, August's Crown
August is speeding by and taking summer with her. It's Back-to-School season and a return to a more orderly and rigid schedule. And yet, it is still summer. Hot and humid days of August are visible in our gardens through crispy leaf tips, wilting plants, and budding goldenrods. Everyday the vegetable garden offers ripe tomatoes and corn almost ready to harvest. Basil and mint are still growing strong, ready to provide instant flavor to any dish. The late summer garden is a marvelous thing, yet it can be frustrating. Read below for some of our favorite tips to help you and your garden thrive through the rest of August and heat of September. A great way to use up a bountiful tomato and pepper harvest is by making salsa, find an easy recipe below. Summer vacations may be ending, but the Autumnal Equinox isn't until September 23. We have several weeks left to savor summer and all her sun-filled days and lightning bug-filled nights. The homegrown produce and blossoming flowers of summer are simple joys that one looks forward to the rest of the year. Make sure to take a moment (or two) to enjoy this summer before she fades away.
Garden Maintenance During the Hot Humid Weather of Summer
Our gardens need a little extra tlc when the weather becomes hot and humid during late summer. Make sure that you not only take care of your garden but also yourself when the temperatures are high. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and drink lots of water when working in the garden in the heat.
Watering
It is official, watering is the most difficult aspect of growing plants. Don't worry, with a few tips you can become a master waterer. The best time to water is in the morning before temperatures reach their peak. Do your best to water underneath plant leaves. Overhead watering can lead to fungal issues and scorched leaves. Check wilting plants before you water. Wilting can be a symptom of underwatering and overwatering. Only water if the plant's soil is dry. If you are unsure if the soil is dry the easiest test method is to stick a couple of fingers a few inches into the soil. If the soil is damp don't water. It is more difficult to discern when to water newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials. Keep in mind that a few deep drinks of water a week is better than a light drink everyday. Hanging baskets may need to be watered everyday.
Harvesting
Place freshly harvested veggies, fruits, and herbs in the shade as soon as possible if you cannot take them immediately inside. Cut flowers at a 45 degree angle, strip leaves, and place immediately in a bucket of water while still in the garden. This is also a good technique when harvesting herbs.
If your garden is beginning to look a little tired, don't worry. Soon it will be time to plant cooler weather loving plants.
Need a gift?
We have a great selection of tropical plants, gift items for the house, and beautiful freshly arranged flowers to choose from. Don't forget Back-to-School and Grandparents Day gifts.
Let's Salsa
Not sure how you are going to handle the influx of fresh tomatoes from the garden? It is always great to share the bounty with friends and neighbors. This year why don't you turn your juicy tomatoes into delicious salsa.
This easy to follow step-by-step recipe will have you dancing the salsa in no time.
Soon you will turn these... into this.
Time to Think about Your Lawn
Let's talk about your lawn. Do you wish it was a little more green? Lush? Rid of weeds? Do you dream of running barefoot in the grass with your hair flowing behind you while the entire neighborhood watches with envy of your gorgeous lawn and free spirit? Okay maybe not the last one. Regardless now is the time to start working on the lawn of your dreams.
There are 3 vital steps to having a beautiful lawn.
1.Rid the lawn of weeds.
2.Sow grass seed.
3.Fertilize
To learn more about caring for your lawn read our post on lawn care.
Important Dates to Remember
We will be Closed on Labor Day Monday, September 2.
Grandparents Day September 8
Autumnal Equinox September 23
"A late summer garden has a tranquility found
no other time of year."
~ William Longgood.