August: The Dog Days of Summer, Hoosier Style!
Well, howdy all you beautiful people! Herb here, your trusted guide to all things green and growing, coming at you live from the heart of Noblesville. And let me tell ya, August is certainly making its presence known, isn't it? It's what we old-timers affectionately call the "dog days of summer," and if you're anything like me, you're probably feeling a bit like a wilting petunia by midday.
But fear not, my fellow Hoosiers! While the sun is blazing and the humidity is hanging thick enough to cut with a knife, our gardens are still putting on a spectacular show. Or, at least, they're trying their best!
I was out in my own patch the other morning, trying to convince my tomatoes that a little less drama would be appreciated, when I overheard a conversation between two very enthusiastic cicadas. Now, I don't speak fluent cicada, but from the sound of it, they were complaining about the heat and how their favorite leaves were getting a bit crispy. Relatable, right?And it got me thinking, if even the bugs are feeling the heat, what can we do to help our beloved plants not just survive, but thrive, through this last stretch of summer?
Here are a few of my tried-and-true August tips, straight from Herb's playbook:
Water Wisely: This isn't the time for a quick sprinkle. Give your plants a good, deep drink in the early morning. Think of it as a tall glass of iced tea for your thirsty flora. A good soak encourages roots to grow deeper, making them more resilient to the heat.
Mulch, Mulch, Mulch! If you haven't mulched yet, what are you waiting for? It's like putting a nice, cool blanket over the soil, keeping moisture in and weeds down. Your plants (and your back!) will thank you.
Harvest Regularly: Don't let those veggies get lazy on the vine! The more you pick, the more your plants will produce. Plus, there's nothing quite like a fresh-picked tomato on a hot August evening. Pure bliss!
Give 'Em a Little Shade: For some of your more delicate plants, a little afternoon shade can make a world of difference. An old sheet or a shade cloth can be a lifesaver. Think of it as a poolside umbrella for your petunias.
(Herb sitting in the garden shade)
Look for Pests: The heat can sometimes bring out unwanted guests. Keep an eye out for any critters trying to make a meal out of your hard work. A little neem oil or insecticidal soap can go a long way.
Remember, gardening in August is all about patience and a little bit of strategic pampering. We're in the home stretch, folks, and soon enough, we'll be enjoying the crisp air of fall. But for now, let's embrace the heat, enjoy the bounty our gardens are offering, and maybe, just maybe, share a cold drink with our plant-loving neighbors.
Until next time, keep those green thumbs strong, and happy gardening!
Your pal,
Herb
(Herbie “chatting” with the Tomatoes and Cicadas)
