Are you worried about scorching days damaging your garden? Don’t fret! There are many practical ways to protect your plants from extreme heat and keep them thriving all summer long.

When summer brings a heatwave, your garden can really feel the strain. Wilting leaves, scorched petals, and cracks in the soil are all signs that your plants could use some help. With the right strategies, you can correct and even prevent these issues to keep your garden thriving over the entire season. Plus, heat-proofing your garden is a great way to make it all-around healthier, too.

One of the first lines of defence against extreme heat is water, but it isn’t just about the amount. It’s also about timing and application. If you water during the day, when it’s hottest, then much of it will evaporate before it reaches down to the roots. Early morning watering, when the soil is cooler, is a more ideal time. Deep and more infrequent waterings are more beneficial than shallow and more frequent ones as well.

Another key component to protecting your garden from extreme temperatures is the application of mulch. A thick layer of organic mulch like straw or shredded bark will act as natural sun protection for your soil, helping it regulate temperature and retain moisture. Over time, organic mulch will even improve your soil health, making your garden more resilient overall.

While you’re thinking about sun protection, shade is another important consideration. Simply shading your plants is one of the most effective ways of shielding them from the worst of the sun. Temporary solutions like shade cloth, garden umbrellas, or even repurposed bedsheets stretched across stakes can work wonders.

However, if you are looking for more permanent solutions that you can apply with an eye for the long-term success of your garden over many years to come, then think about the overall layout of the space. Grouping plants with similar water needs together allows for more efficient irrigation and helps avoid over- or under-watering. Positioning taller or hardier plants to offer partial shade to more delicate ones can create a more layered, self-protecting microclimate. Even choosing raised beds over in-ground planting can help, since beds can be filled with loamy, moisture-retentive soil that performs better during dry spells.

The plants you choose will also determine how well your garden stands up to extreme heat. Opting for native or heat-tolerant varieties will make a big difference. Native plants that are adapted to your region’s climate will require less watering and maintenance as well. Similarly, Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender are naturally drought-resistant and often thrive in hot, dry conditions.

And remember: nature can throw a curveball into even the most careful plans. When temperatures soar well above seasonal, some losses may be inevitable, but they can also show you where you can make changes and improvements. Keep a gardening journal and make note of what worked and what didn’t to guide your future planting.

Extreme heat doesn’t have to mean that your gardening days are over for the season. Strategies like smart watering, providing proper shade, and selecting the right plants can go a long way to improving your garden’s resilience. Just focus on working with nature, not against it, and you’ll quickly find yourself on the right path.