DENVER — High heat can cause havoc in your garden. Use these tips to prevent it.
Mow high. Set your lawn mower blade on the highest setting. Longer grass can help shade itself and the soil. Cooler soil means less evaporation.
Water thoroughly. It's most efficient to water early in the day or in the evening because there's less evaporation. Make sure the water sinks in and saturates the soil. Roots will delve deeper into the soil or pot to get at the moisture, rather than coming to the surface in search of it. Use a moisture meter to determine if you're watering correctly or if your plants need water.
Stressed plants attract insects. Keep your spray bottle of soapy water handy. Soapy water kills insects including Japanese beetles, white flies, aphids and spider mites. The latter three are often found on the undersides of leaves. Soap spray must make a direct hit to be effective; it's not a preventative.
Some plants such as pansies, calendula, African sun daisies (Osteospermum), lettuce and spinach fail in the heat. No amount of water or fertilizer can prevent this. Heat stress will attract insects, especially spider mites. When the plants fail, compost them and replace with heat lovers such as coleus, geraniums, marigolds and zinnias.
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