Do you need summer gardening tips? Summer is upon us, and it’s time to put on those gardening gloves back on and get outside. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time gardener, it’s always helpful to have a few tricks up your sleeve to help you make the most of your summer garden. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to summer gardening tips from the experts in all things gardening and landscape at G&L Bark and Supply in Spanaway, WA. We’ll cover everything from choosing the best plants for your area to keeping your garden healthy and thriving all summer long.

Start with healthy soil:

The foundation of a healthy summer gardening begins with the soil. Before planting anything, make sure your soil is nutrient-rich and well-draining. You can test your soil’s pH level with a kit from your local garden center or contact G&L Bark and Supply for testing services. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, you can amend it with compost or mix in a soil conditioner recommended by the experts at G&L Bark and Supply.

Choose the Right Plants:

One of the most important things to consider when planning your summer garden is choosing the right plants. Different plants thrive in different climates, so it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to your area. Some plants that do well in the heat include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, and herbs like basil and rosemary. Take the time to research which plants are best for your region and climate, and seek advice from your local garden center.

Water Wisely:

In the summer heat, plants need plenty of water to stay hydrated, but over-watering can be just as harmful as under-watering. The key is to water deeply and less frequently. Aim to water your garden once a week, giving each plant a good soak. You can also invest in a drip irrigation system or a timer for your sprinkler to ensure your garden is getting the right amount of water at the right times.

Mulch for Moisture:

During the hot summer months, it’s essential to keep your plants hydrated. However, watering your plants too often can lead to water waste and increased water bills. The solution? Mulch! Mulching your plants helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for constant watering. Mulching is a great way to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like bark, straw, or leaves can also break down over time, adding nutrients to your soil. At G&L Bark and Supply, we offer a variety of mulches to choose from, including wood chips, bark, and compost. They can help you determine how much mulch you need for your garden.

Protect from Pests:

Nothing can ruin a summer garden quite like pests and bugs. To protect your plants, inspect them regularly and take action when you see any signs of infestation. The key to keeping pests away is to practice proper garden hygiene, including regular weeding, removing dead or diseased plant matter, and keeping your garden free of debris. You can also use natural insecticides like garlic spray to deter pests without harming beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. You can even release predator insects like praying mantis and ladybugs! The experts at G&L Bark Supply can provide advice on natural pest control and they can also help you choose landscaping products to help reduce the number of pests in your garden.

Protect Your Plants:

Summer is a great time to be outside soaking up the sunshine, but it’s not always great for your plants. High temperatures and strong summer storms can take a toll on your garden. One way to protect your plants is to provide them with shade. Consider planting tall plants or installing shade cloth to protect your garden from direct sunlight. We also recommend covering your plants during heavy rainstorms to prevent damage.

Control Weeds:

Weeds can quickly take over your garden, stealing valuable nutrients and resources from your plants. To keep weeds under control, consider using a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating in the first place. If you already have weeds, hand-pulling or using a selective herbicide can help keep them at bay. At G&L Bark Supply, we offer a variety of weed control products to help you keep your garden weed-free.

Harvest Your Bounty:

Finally, one of the best things about having a summer garden is getting to enjoy the bounty of your hard work. Be sure to harvest your fruits and vegetables when they’re ripe, and enjoy them in your favorite recipes. At G&L Bark Supply, we offer a variety of planters and garden tools to help you take care of your garden and harvest your bounty.

Creating a thriving garden takes time, patience, and a little bit of know-how. With these summer gardening tips from G&L Bark Supply, you’ll be well on your way to a successful summer garden. Remember to choose the right plants, healthy soil, wise watering practices, mulch for moisture, protect your plants, control weeds, and harvest your bounty. And most importantly, have fun! Gardening is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and grow your own fruits and vegetables. Happy gardening!