June in the Garden
June in Southern California sure has been a scorcher. This weekend and into the week is predicted to have temperatures inland over 100 degrees. Sheesh, it isn’t even Summer if you consult the calendar! With the heat in mind I want remind you to wear sun protection and keep hydrated, and be sure to do your gardening during the cooler parts of the day.
Now is a good time as any to get on my soapbox about mulch. Keeping a good layer of mulch in your garden will go a long way to protecting your plants’ roots, keep the soil cooler, keep moisture in, and help keep weeds at bay. If you have not added a layer of mulch yet, what are you waiting for?
This time of the year, you should really just be weeding, mulching, dead heading, and making sure your water is on target. Now is not a great time to prune most plants.
Checking irrigation is essential now, take a look at your garden – the plants will most likely tell you what they need however over and under water can look similar so if you are not sure check with a professional. Or… use your fingers! Take a small trowel and dig then use your finger to check down in the soil, if it is wet (and clay) you are most likely over watering. If dry … time to water. The best type of watering is deep and infrequent. You want to water slowly for better absorption into the soil and down to the roots. Cycle watering is best for slopes and clay soil (slow percolation.)
Okay, that’s my soapbox for June – it may be the same in July, August, and September but I guess that means that I’m consistent.
Here is your June Garden Chore list. Remember it’s just a guide, you may not need to do more than weeding, and deadheading!
If you would like a little help in your garden, why not consider giving me a call at 661-917-3521 or visit my website and contact me there.
