We are not the only ones suffering from this oppressive heat. The majority of common garden plants prefer temperatures between 59° and 86° F.
In fact, they can begin to exhibit signs of heat exhaustion when temperatures exceed 90°F for extended periods of time. Here are the symptoms of heat stress and recovery techniques for your plants:
Plant symptoms of heat stress
The Oregon State University Extension Office lists the following as symptoms of heat stress in plants:
Lack of water pressure will cause the plant to decline if it occurs.
- Bolting is the precocious blooming of vegetation.
- Sunscald: Sun damage that can appear as dried-out fruit or sunken, hardened areas on the
- surface of the fruit; discoloration; lesions on the fruit’s skin; a wet area on the fruit.
- Dry leaf margins are more prevalent on plants with larger foliage.
- Blossom and produce drop: Efforts by the facility to conserve energy
- Rolling and encircling leaves: The plant’s effort to reduce leaf surface area
How to assist plants suffering from heat stress
Many plants can recover from heat stress, and those that lost flowers or fruit will likely produce more as the season continues. Also courtesy of the Oregon State University Extension Office, here are a few methods to help your plants recover from the heat:
- Give your plants a thorough soaking in the morning, unless they are wilted. Consequently, moisten it immediately.
- Create a little shade: Move containers into the shade; use umbrellas or suspend sheeting to create shade for ground plants.
- Mulch your flower borders and garden. This will help the soil retain moisture and protect it from extreme temperatures by acting as insulation.
