By Carolyn Applegate
Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteer
In the heat of the summer, some annuals love the heat and full sun. When looking for annuals that love the heat, consider Zinnias, Petunias, Marigolds, and of course, don’t forget cheery sunflowers. These are annuals that love the heat, but in the middle of summer, when the weather is hot and dry, perennials can be a great addition to the garden. When considering perennials that can thrive under hot and dry conditions, look at yarrow, butterfly milkweed, and the hardy Yucca.
Gardening in July offers plenty to keep a gardener busy. In addition to harvesting your vegetable garden, deadheading annuals and pruning roses. Continue making successive plantings of crops such as beans and sweet corn to provide a continuous harvest until fall. A small garden will produce a large quantity of vegetables if replanting is done throughout the summer.
While enjoying your garden and flowers in summer, be on the lookout for aphids. This small insect makes a big impact, and not in a good way. Aphids use their mouthparts to suck out plant sap, causing damage such as wilting, reduced flowering, and even transmitting viruses. Ways to get rid of these pests include blasting them with water, insecticidal soap, or introducing lady beetles, who eat aphids.
Another problem area can be watering in July. One inch of water or rain is needed each week during July, but as temperatures rise, your garden might need watering twice a day. Early morning is the best time to water. Evening watering is less desirable because plant leaves that remain wet overnight are more susceptible to fungal diseases. Mulch plants to reduce water losses and improve yields. Consistent watering is vital to keep both your lawn, garden, and landscape healthy and happy.