Drought is one of the most common issues that gardeners face. Although it may seem like a big setback, there are ways to make sure that your garden stays healthy and grows strong, even during times of drought.
Here are some tips for growing a healthy garden during drought:
- Make sure you have enough water – If you’re growing your own plants, you’ll need to make sure that they have enough water to survive. Use a watering can or hose to give them water every day, especially if they’re starting to wilt in areas where they receive less sunlight or if they need more moisture than usual.
- When watering your plants, try not to overdo it. The soil should be moist but not soaked. You don’t want too much water sitting on top of the soil because this can cause root rot in some plants. Also, make sure that there isn’t standing water left over from other sources such as rain or poor drainage from previous rainfall since this can cause more problems than just rotting roots!
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture, reduce weeds and prevent soil from crusting over in summer heat.
- Water early in the morning or late in the day so that water doesn’t evaporate quickly from leaves during hot periods.
- Use a rain gauge for an accurate reading of how much rain your yard has received each month and adjust watering accordingly (it should be less than usual).
- If you can, choose drought-tolerant plants. Many common vegetable varieties can thrive in dry conditions once they’re established. Be sure to choose varieties that are adapted to your area and soil type.
- Consider raised beds. Raised beds help keep water from evaporating; they also make it easier for you to control watering and fertilizing without damaging plants’ roots.
