Beat the Heat While Growing Your Garden!

With the next looming snow storm before us (and lows in the negative digits!) it sure is lovely to think about our vegetable and flower gardens. This is the time of year I think everyone who lives with a long winter starts really dreaming of spring and green and growing things. One year we had such extreme heat all of us gardeners had to learn when NOT to water because if its too hot you can hurt you’re plants by steaming them lol!

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Working in the garden during the summer months can be an enjoyable, rewarding experience, but it can also be a challenge due to the hot temperatures. Fortunately, there are many ways to beat the heat while growing your garden. Read on to find out!

Wear Appropriate Clothing:

When working in the garden during the hot summer months, it is essential to wear appropriate clothing. Not only will this help you stay cool and comfortable, but it can also protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. For example, a loose-fitting cotton t-shirt and a short combination are excellent. Also, try to avoid wearing dark colors as they absorb more heat.

Additionally, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses should be worn for further protection from the sun’s harsh rays. And please remember to put on some sunscreen before heading out into the garden!

Start Early In the Morning:

Try to start your gardening tasks early in the morning when it is cooler. This will help you avoid the hottest part of the day and get your work done faster. The coolest time of the morning is usually between 4 and 7 am.

Stay Hydrated:

Staying hydrated is key for keeping cool during hot summer days. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day – more than you normally would – as dehydration can cause fatigue and dizziness. You can also add some electrolytes to replenish vital minerals such as potassium that may have been lost through sweat if needed. And if you really want to spice it up, an ice-cold glass of ready to drink cocktails or mocktails can also be refreshing and enjoyable.

Utilize Shade:

Try to work in the shade as much as possible during the hot summer months. Plastic or fabric shade cloths can be installed over large areas of the garden to provide additional protection from the sun’s rays and help keep things cool and comfortable while working in your garden.

Install a Misting System:

Consider installing a misting system if you are serious about keeping cool while gardening. This is especially helpful for outdoor gardens that don’t receive any shade. The misting system will spray out an ultrafine mist of cooled water which helps decrease air temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit – perfect for those scorching summer days! 

Take Frequent Breaks:

It is essential to take regular breaks when working in the garden, especially during the summer months. This will allow you to catch your breath and cool down while still getting things done in the garden. If possible, try to spend those few minutes sitting in the shade sipping on an ice-cold beverage – this will help you relax and feel refreshed! 

Beat the heat while growing your garden by following these simple ways. Wear appropriate clothing, start early in the morning, stay hydrated, utilize shade and install a misting system if needed, and take frequent breaks throughout the day. With just a few steps, you can ensure that both you and your garden are kept cool and comfortable during the hot summer months.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about our compensation please read our disclosure policy)