06/29/2026
Here's Tommy with a reminder about watering this week.
To keep your plants alive in hot weather, water them deeply early in the morning and apply a 2-to-3-inch layer of mulch to lock moisture into the soil. Proper hydration during a heatwave is less about watering more frequently and more about targeting the roots effectively.
Essential Timing Rules
Water early in the morning: Aim for sunrise. Cooler morning temperatures allow water to soak deep into the soil before it evaporates. It also gives any stray water on the leaves time to dry, preventing fungal diseases.
Avoid midday watering: Do not water during peak sun hours (typically 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.). The intense heat will evaporate the water before the roots can absorb it.
Evening is your backup: If you miss the morning window, water in the late afternoon or early evening. Ensure you do this a few hours before dusk so the foliage can dry before nightfall.
Deep Watering Technique
Focus on the roots: Pour water directly at the base of the plant using a soaker hose, drip irrigation, or a watering can. Leaves do not absorb water; roots do.
Water deeply, not shallowly: Frequent, light watering keeps roots near the hot soil surface where they can easily burn out. Instead, run your hose or irrigation slowly for 30 to 60 minutes. This forces moisture deep down, encouraging roots to grow deeper and become more resilient.
Double the volume: Plants generally need 1 inch of water per week in mild weather. When temperatures soar into the 90s, double that amount to 2 inches of water per week.
Moisture Retention Strategies
Mulch heavily: Spread 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch (like wood chips, straw, or compost) around your plants. Mulch acts as a shield, lowering soil temperatures and preventing evaporation.
Create temporary shade: Protect delicate or wilting plants by setting up a temporary shade cloth.
