As the temperature in New Mexico rises, our landscape plants and gardens need a little extra love! Here are a few tips:

•  Deep water trees once a week. Soak shrubs, lawns, perennials, annuals and vegetable gardens every other day, more if they are drying out too quickly.
• Check container plantings and raised beds every day as size, plant type and soil type can make a big difference in watering needs.
• Newly-planted plants will need to be watered every day.
• Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation. Avoid overhead watering annuals, perennials, small trees and shrubs.
• Maintain your lawn to about 3-4 inches, as shorter blades will leave it more vulnerable to our scorching heat.
• Mulch! Mulch will help to reduce evaporation and keep roots cooler.
• Avoid fertilizing during heat waves. Avoid certain herbicides and insecticides during hot times as they can cause damage.  Always read the labels!
• Use shade cloth or row covers to give your plants some much needed relief. If possible, move plants to a shady area... they will love you for it!
• Last but not least, drink lots of water to keep yourself healthy and cool! 🙂