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The summer season in tropical countries like India can be brutal. The scorching heat of the summer is not only harmful to you, but it can also hamper the healthy growth of your plants. Just like you put sunscreen without fail before getting out in the Sun, there are specific steps you can take to protect your kitchen garden from the heatwaves.
If you have plated a range of fruits, vegetables, or even herbs in your home garden, note that the summer prep to keep your plants cool is very important. Whether you’re growing coriander on your terrace or a root vegetable in your backyard, following these simple tips will help you get a healthy harvest with minimal sun damage.
Pick Heat-Tolerant Plants
If you are just planting a new set of fruits or vegetables, make sure that you pick the ones that are heat-tolerant. Since not all plants can handle the intense summer heat, here are some summer-friendly options:
- Vegetables: Bhindi, lauki, and karela.
- Fruits: Mango, watermelon, and lemon.
- Herbs: Tulsi, mint, curry leaves, and lemongrass.
Prepare Your Soil
Whether you are planting afresh or preparing your garden for summer, prepping your soil is a non-negotiable step. You can simply start loosening compacted soil to improve drainage and air circulation. Since hard soil makes it difficult for the roots to absorb water, loosening it in the summer season will keep your plants hydrated and healthy.
Watering Techniques
Since the harsh and continuous heat of the summer can make the plants dehydrate quickly, you’d require some fool-proof watering techniques. For a handy tip, you can water deep into the layers of the soil. Also, watering the plants early in the morning or later in the evening will help minimise the evaporation. Furthermore, add a thick layer of mulch, which will help maintain the temperature of the soil.
Give Plants Some Shade
Even the heat-resistant fruits and vegetables you’ve planted in your kitchen garden require a break from the extreme summer heat. To make sure the plants get some shade, you can install green shade nets to protect the delicate plants. You can also plant the new seeds with taller crops to create a natural shade for smaller crops. If you have container gardens, you can easily switch their locations, which do not get direct sunlight all day long.
Maintain Nutrition
Since the summer heat fastens the plant metabolism, you’ll need to pay more attention to their nutritional requirements. You can start by adding compost, manure, or organic fertilisers and make sure the plants get essential vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, the addition of garden soil or cocopeat can further increase the yield of the harvest.
