Introduction
Nothing beats enjoying outdoor living in the summer months in Massachusetts. Warmer climate, longer days and blue skies make the summer the perfect time to make the most of our yards and appreciate beautiful gardens in full bloom. Whether you’re a keen gardener, or you’re new to gardening, it’s important to be aware of how best to manage your garden in the summer. In this informative guide, we’ll share some top garden tips for Massachusetts residents.
The weather in Massachusetts
The weather is one of the most important considerations for gardeners. The climate in Massachusetts is ideal for summer gardening. There are plenty of sun-drenched days in July, one of the hottest months of the year, but temperatures tend to stay below 35℃/95℉. During the average July, you can expect between 3 and 8 rainy days, with heavy showers more common than persistent rain and gray cloudy skies (source). The rain can bring a welcome respite from the sun for plants, trees and flowers and help maintain healthy, vibrant gardens, but it is important to remember to water plants frequently during the drier months.
Summer gardening tips in Massachusetts
July is one of the hottest months of the year in Massachusetts and New England. Long, hazy days are ideal for soaking up the sunshine, dining and drinking outside and embracing al fresco living. For gardeners, it can be a busy month. Key tasks include watering, weeding, deadheading, harvesting fresh produce, preparing for the fall and taking care of your lawn. To help you stay on top of summer gardening and ensure that your backyard looks incredible all summer long, here are some top tips:
1. Watering
July is traditionally a dry month in Massachusetts and New England. There will undoubtedly be a few heavy downpours and showers around, but generally speaking, this is a month synonymous with long periods of warm, dry weather. It can get very hot on some summer days, so watering is key. Remember to water plants and flowers regularly and keep a close eye on vegetable patches.
Plants, vegetables and flowers will need more water during the hotter months. You may also need to water your lawn. If it’s very warm outside and there hasn’t been much rain, you might start to notice that the grass turns brown or that it looks thinner in patches. When it’s cooler, for example in the mornings, water your lawn, flower beds and containers. It’s also essential to stay hydrated while gardening in the heat, so don’t forget to take a drink out with you if you’ve got an afternoon of weeding planned.
Adding mulch around the roots of your plants can help them to stay cooler for longer on warmer days.
2. Weeding and deadheading
Many of us find that our gardens burst into life during the spring and summer months. While it’s wonderful to see flowers, plants and trees blossoming, weeds can also thrive at this time of year. Keep up with regular weeding and deadhead and prune plants as needed.
3. Harvesting fresh produce
July is a magical time of year for gardeners who grow their own produce. During the summer, patches thrive, creating a veritable feast of fresh vegetables to enjoy. July is a bumper month for growers of tomatoes, peppers, beans, cucumbers and squash. Keep a close eye on your harvest and start picking once your vegetables are ripe and ready.
4. Taking care of your lawn
The combination of plenty of bright sunshine and rain during the spring months means that many gardeners head into summer with a healthy-looking lush lawn. You may find that your lawn remains in pristine condition throughout the summer, but hot, dry conditions can pose a problem. If temperatures rise above average, or there is less rainfall than usual, it’s important to increase the volume of water you use. It’s best to opt for a deep water once or twice a week rather than to water lightly every day. Try to water your garden early in the morning before it gets hot and always mow the grass when it’s dry. Mowing your lawn when it’s wet can damage the grass.
5. Preparing for fall
Summer is a fabulous time to reap the rewards of hard work earlier in the year, but there are still plenty of jobs to do. As well as enjoying vibrant, colorful floral displays and burgeoning vegetable patches, gardeners can start to look ahead to the new season. Preparing for fall during the early summer months will help you to lighten the load and make sure your garden looks healthy and attractive all year round. Tasks to check off your list include:
- Plant fall bulbs
- Plan which vegetables to grow in the fall
- Stay on top of weeding
- Think about which plants you may need to relocate once cooler climes arrive
6. Seeking expert advice
If you have questions about gardening in summer, you have concerns about the plants in your garden, you need advice about reviving your lawn, or you don’t have time to stay on top of gardening tasks, seek expert advice. Lawn care companies, landscapers and experienced gardeners can help you to solve common summer gardening dilemmas or provide services to save you time or effort.
7. Caring for your garden while you’re on vacation
Many people like to take a vacation in July or August. If you’re planning to jet off for a couple of weeks, or you’re hoping to get away for longer than a few days, it’s beneficial to make arrangements for somebody to look after your garden. If you get on well with your neighbors or you have friends and family members nearby, you could ask them to keep an eye on the lawn and water flower beds, vegetable patches and containers. Alternatively, you could hire a gardener to tend to your yard while you’re away.
Summary
July is an exciting time of year for gardeners in Massachusetts. Gardens spring to life in the summer and an abundance of sunshine makes for long days spent outside. While there are many positives of gardening in the summer, there are also some risks and hazards to be wary of, including hot weather, dry spells, patchy lawns and fast-growing weeds. To keep your garden in good shape and make the most of al fresco living, water your garden more frequently, stay on top of weeding and harvest produce when it’s ready. Plan ahead for the fall, seek expert advice if you have any questions or concerns, and arrange for somebody to keep an eye on your garden if you’re taking a vacation.
