Post date: Oct 24, 2019 6:57:07 PM
Now that day temps have hit the 90s, here are some tips for protecting your plants:
1. That combination of high heat and moisture from rains can create ideal pockets for fungal infection in your garden. This is the season to focus on air.
2. Trim the lower branches of all your large plants. Air circulation at the bottom keeps most diseases away.
3. Keep your plants upright, so air can move easily. Stake them, fasten with ropes to a support, instal frames. Keep the plants off the ground.
4. Do not water the leaves. Moist leaves attract fungal growth. Water in leaves can also attract light and scorch the plant. Water the soil.
5. Ensure shade from afternoon sun. The design of your garden can help here. Keep tall sun loving plants like okra and corn on the western edge. Use a shade net if you have no trees.
6. Switch watering back to early morning. Leaving wet soil overnight can encourage fungal growth. Water deeply. About two inches of your top soil should remain moist. Mulch to preserve moisture.
7. Trim off infected leaves at first sight. This prevents spreading of disease.
8. Harvest frequently and with a sharp cut. Exposed plant parts and vulnerable to disease.
9. Allow flowering weeds to remain. They attract predators that will control other pest populations.
10. Space and thin your plants so they aren’t crowded. Air must flow through. Fewer plants yield better than too many competing for same nutrition.
Keep in mind that in the summer heat, air circulation is the key determinant of the health of your plants. Healthy plants usually get no disease and fight off most pests.