Let It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
We don’t normally associate the month of October with drought, but this year we have experienced a near record-breaking dry fall coupled with a scary hot Halloween. While our gardens beg for rain, let us consider ways to deal with drought in the garden.
One way to conserve water in the garden is to mulch around your plants. Mulch will help retain moisture in the soil and insulate the roots of your plants from both extreme heat and extreme cold. Let’s face it, these beautiful warm days won’t last forever. Winter is coming, and mulch will provide the extra layer of protection your plants need to survive harsh conditions. As the mulch breaks down, it will give the added benefit of providing nutrients to the soil. Mulch will also help control weeds. Keeping your garden weeded will help eliminate competition for water.
Continue to water your plants when possible. Normally this time of year, the garden takes care of itself and begins to wind down into a peaceful state of rest. But with high temperatures and the lack of rain, you should give your plants a little extra help to get through this unseasonable spell. However, be wise about watering. A deep soaking twice a week will be better for your plants than a quick, daily, shallow sprinkle. Water your plants early in the morning so that the roots have time to absorb water before the hot sun evaporates all of your hard work. You want to keep your plants as healthy as possible now before they enter the front lines of winter, since stressed plants will be more susceptible to disease, drought, and cold.
Using native perennials will help your garden overcome drought situations. When planted in their native habitat, these plants will be better adapted to our soil and climate. Consequently, they will be able to handle a short time of drought. Normally, fall is an ideal time to add new perennials to your garden, but choose a cooler day for planting, and make sure you keep newly planted perennials well-watered. Even drought-tolerant plants will be susceptible to dry conditions until their roots are well-established. Some drought-tolerant native plants to consider are: liatris (blazing star), purple coneflower, catmint, coreopsis, New Jersey tea (shrub), and butterfly weed.
Soon enough, winter will be upon us and we will long for the beautiful days of October. Enjoy this extra dose of sun and keep your gardens watered. We would love to hear how you have handled dry spells in your garden. Send your comments and questions to shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
