Mid-June in Florida brings heatwaves and wilting leaves, but you don’t need to suffer—and neither do your plants. Try these offbeat but surprisingly effective garden cooling tricks.
Watering with Frozen Herbs
Chop up mint, basil, or lemon balm, and freeze them in ice cube trays. Pop one near the base of container plants or herbs prone to pests like aphids. As it melts, it releases a slow drip of herb-infused water that smells great to us but deters pests.
Clay Pot Ollas
Bury an unglazed clay pot with the opening just above the soil line. Fill it with water and cover with a saucer. Water slowly seeps through the porous sides, keeping nearby roots hydrated. Great for deep watering in a small area like raised beds or tomato pots.
Reflective Mulch and Microclimates
Lay down light-colored straw or shredded paper mulch to reflect sunlight and reduce soil temp. Plant taller companions (like sunflowers or okra) to shade smaller greens. Even a white tile laid flat beside a tender seedling can reflect heat away during peak hours.
Bonus Tip:
Try a DIY shade tent with an old bedsheet and bamboo stakes. Your lettuce will thank you.