6 Tips for Beating the Heat in Your Summer Garden

Betsie Van der Meer/Getty ImagesChoose Drought Tolerant Plants

“Drought tolerant plants are a must. We’re on a well, and the last thing we want is to have it run dry because we’re watering the garden,” says Jen St. Louis of Elmira, Ontario. “Bee balm and coneflowers are ideal for dry conditions.”

Cool Down with Misters

“I recommend misters in the garden,” says Kathryn Rucci of Orlando, Florida. “Find the kind designed for the end of a hose at any home improvement store. They cool a large area with subtle mist and provide water to thirsty plants and insects.”

Apply Sunscreen and Stay Hydrated

Be an early bird to avoid the hottest hours of the day. “With sunscreen on and a bottle of water nearby, I work in the garden around 9 a.m. to avoid mosquitoes,” says Juli Seyfried of Cincinnati, Ohio. “I begin with the sunny areas and move to shady ones as the morning wears on. I finish no later than noon, often earlier.” Check out these mosquito-repelling plants you need ASAP.

Bring an Umbrella for Shade

If your yard isn’t shaded by trees, bring along your own sun protection. “I use a small adjustable umbrella to protect me from the direct sun,” says Nancy Pedersen of Center City, Minnesota.

Water Early in the Day

Give thirsty plants a deep morning watering to keep them from wilting. “I water early in the morning so less water evaporates throughout the day,” says Jimmy Vicars of Princeton, West Virginia. Here’s more tips to conserve water in the garden.

Work Late

Take advantage of long summer days. “I work in the late afternoon because it’s light out until 9 p.m.,” says Cleone Benson Larson of Salt Lake City, Utah. Or plant a moon garden with night-blooming flowers.