Summer is just around the corner and it's predicted to be a warm and wet one, according to experts from the Farmers' Almanac.
As gardeners finish ticking off their spring gardening checklist and turn their attention to the hotter months ahead, the Farmers’ Almanac Summer Weather Forecast 2024 states muggy and rainy weather can be expected across different parts of the US.
No matter which US hardiness zone you live in, experts say there are things every US gardener should keep in mind this summer.
1. Watch out for mold and mildew
According to the Farmers' Almanac forecast, most of the US will experience a particularly humid but wet summer. Although, it is expected the Northwest region will experience more regular summer temperatures.
Experts say to watch out for effects of muggy weather in backyards. 'Unusually humid or muggy conditions can lead to increased growth of mold and bacteria, which can be detrimental to plan health,' says Sarah Menz, master gardener from Rachio.
Sarah and her team at Rachio suggest monitoring plants for mold and getting rid of powdery mildew from foliage. 'Any plants that show signs of disease should either be pruned of the diseased portions or disposed of,' Sarah adds.
Sarah is a master gardener and Director of Brand Marketing at Rachio, the leading smart-yard tech company at the forefront of sustainable water use. Sarah is passionate and knowledgeable in sustainable solutions, water conservation, and systems thinking. She advises on all things agriculture, gardening and eco-friendly practices.
2. Monitor water levels
Farmers' Almanac reports that lots of rainfall is expected in New England, Southeast states and the Mid-Atlantic region throughout the summer months.
Gardeners without a rain garden may want to think about incorporating garden drainage ideas for the summer, as experts warn too much rainfall could result in waterlogged soil.
'Plants that get too much water or that are placed in waterlogged soils can suffocate due to lack of oxygen in the soil. This can lead to plant decline and even death, so it’s important to manage your plants’ water intake as best you can,' says Sarah.
3. Cover plants during storms
Central areas of the US are likely to experience thunderstorms, according to the Farmers' Almanac summer forecast, as well as the Great Lakes and Midwest region. It's important for gardeners in these areas to take measures to protect plants during storms.
'Our biggest concern for plants during a thunderstorm is hail. Even small hail can rip through leaves and branches, making it tough for plants to photosynthesize at the required rate for growth,' says Sarah.
Gardeners should use covers to protect plants from storm damage. 'With drastic weather events, be ready to throw a cold frame over plants in case of a hailstorm,' says Lara Hermanson, gardening expert and co-owner of Farmscape.
Lara Hermanson is Principal and Co-Owner of Farmscape, California’s largest urban farming company. Lara creates beautiful, edible gardens for commercial, community and residential spaces throughout Northern California. She advises on a range of gardening matters.
Prepare your garden for summer
This mini cloche greenhouse is portable and can be used to grow and protect plants.
Test soil moisture levels, pH values and sunlight levels with this soil tester.
Use this leaf shine spray to clean plant foliage and make it glossy.
FAQs
What is the weather forecast for September in the US?
The Farmers’ Almanac Summer Weather Forecast 2024 states that rain can be expected across the eastern two-thirds of the US during late summer months. Gardeners in this region should prepare to monitor moisture levels in August and September to ensure plants aren't left in waterlogged soil.
It's predicted to be a muggy, wet and, at times, stormy summer this year and gardeners are urged to take precautions to keep gardens thriving.
You can also get ahead of the warmer months by researching when to plant summer bulbs and considering garden shade ideas.
