Planting Vegetables During the Heat

Soils containing composts are rich and full of nutrients for plants. It is very important to get seeds and transplants off to a good start when planting in rich soils. 

Viragrow compost

Follow these general guidelines when planting:

·       Make sure garden soils are wet at the time of planting. Never plant into dry soil.

·       During the first week after planting, whether it’s seeds or transplants, never let soil around seeds or roots dry out.

·       Delay applying fertilizers until you see growth from seeds or new growth from transplants.

Here are some additional guidelines for watering during the heat.

·       When temperatures are above 105F, water three times a day.

·       In hot summer months when temperatures are above 85F water 2 times a day; morning (7-8 am), midday (noon to 1pm) and afternoon (5 to 6 pm).

During the cooler months,

·       When temperatures are between 65F and 85F water 1 to 2 times per day;

morning and afternoon.

·       During winter months, December and January, watering is needed no more than once a day. Sometimes it may be once every three days in very cold weather.

Bedding used as a surface mulch for vegetables and growth difference

Other tips,

·       Always water before the heat of the day.

·       Use surface mulches such as shredded paper (no colored paper or inks please!), straw or wood shavings to keep soils cool and reduce plant stress from dry soils.

Viragrow Delivers!