Keeping your urban planter box plants healthy during a heatwave requires smart watering strategies. The intense heat and sun can quickly dehydrate plants, leading to wilting, stress, and potential death if not properly addressed. Here are the best practices to ensure your plants thrive even in extreme temperatures.
Water deeply and thoroughly in the early morning, ideally between 5-9 AM. This allows water to reach the root zone before evaporation accelerates. Avoid midday watering when up to 90% of moisture can be lost to evaporation, and evening watering which can promote fungal diseases.
Check soil moisture daily by inserting your finger 2-3 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, water until it runs from the drainage holes. Consider installing a simple drip irrigation system with a timer for consistent moisture delivery.
Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch like wood chips or straw to reduce soil temperature and moisture loss by up to 70%. Group containers together to create a more humid microclimate that reduces water stress.
For larger planter boxes, consider adding water-absorbing polymers to the soil mix to help retain moisture. Monitor plants for signs of heat stress including wilting, yellowing, or scorched leaves, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Remember that different plants have varying water needs - succulents require less frequent watering while vegetables and flowering plants typically need more consistent moisture during heatwaves.