If you want to grow a healthy garden this summer, talk to your local plant nursery for expert advice. Here at Millcreek Gardens, our friendly staff loves to share their expertise on caring for indoor and outdoor plants.
Millcreek Gardens fields lots of customer questions, but we’re rarely asked what NOT to do in the garden during the hot and humid summer months. That’s why we decided to share some of our top summertime “don’ts” for growing a healthy garden.
Don’t Leave Standing Water in Your Garden
Standing water can be a major issue for your garden. Summer is mosquito season, and a bit of water is all the pests need to quickly multiply and become a real nuisance.
No one wants mosquitoes to take over their garden. So, at least once each week and after heavy rains, take time to check your yard for standing water – and if you find any, eliminate it. If you own a bird bath, change out the water frequently or add an aerator to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs.
For a Healthier Garden, Don’t Be Aggressive with Fertilizer
During hot weather, garden plants use up their nutrient reserves faster – which means they could benefit from fertilization. However, rapid absorption could result in fertilizer burn.
When high temperatures hit your part of northern Utah, plant nursery professionals recommend taking a cautious approach to fertilizing. In most cases, gardeners should the frequency of application in the summer, but decrease the amount of fertilizer applied each time.
Don’t Mow Your Turf Too Short
Although it’s not technically a part of your garden, your turf is a critical part of your landscape and the eco system of your yard. If you don’t care for it properly, you make it easier for pests, weeds and diseases to make entry which, ultimately, can affect your garden and your landscaping.
Many northern Utah homeowners give their lawns a super close cut for a neater appearance. But, in the extreme heat of summer, mowing the grass too short can cause grass to die. It can also cause you to waste precious water in your attempt to restore turf health.
The ideal mowing height varies by grass type, so you may want to ask the staff at your local plant nursery for a recommendation. As a general rule, however, no more than one-third of the grass blades should be cut each time you mow.
Don’t Overdo it With Your Gardening Activities
Bright, sunny days naturally make you want to spend time out in the garden. Be careful, though, as you could easily overheat under the brutal summer sun.
To prevent that from happening, plant nursery professionals recommend trying to get your garden chores done during the cooler hours of early morning or late afternoon. And, whenever you’re working outside, make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks.
For more expert gardening advice, stop by and chat with the experts at Millcreek Gardens. Our friendly, experienced plant nursery staff has a solid understanding of the growing conditions in northern Utah, and we’re always happy to answer questions.
As the region’s leading plant nursery for over 60 years, Millcreek Gardens is known for exceptional customer service and our diverse selection of healthy, high-quality indoor and outdoor plants. Stop by our Salt Lake City plant nursery for even more tips for growing a healthy garden this year.