Heatwave Garden Hacks

When summer is at its hottest, it's not just your plants that feel the strain—your soil does too. Intense heat can dry out the ground, reduce beneficial microbial activity, and leave roots struggling for the moisture and nutrients they need. The good news is that a few simple regenerative gardening practices can help keep your soil cool, healthy, and productive throughout the hottest months. From mulching to smart watering techniques, protecting your soil is one of the best investments for a thriving garden.

1. Proper watering

You want to water only once or twice a week for a long time, give the soil a good soak slowly to properly absorb the moisture.

2. Cover your soil

You want to mimic mother nature where there is more dense growth to protect the soil from heat by planting smaller plants around a large plant to help keep the soil moist. Alternatively, if the soil is bare, apply a layer of mulch as a moisture barrier.

3. Wine bottle trick

Before going on a trip, fill an empty wine bottle with water and insert it into the ground. The roots will slowly drink from the water as it needs while you’re gone.

4. Use Activated and Inoculated Biochar

Sprinkle around the base of plants, about 1 quarter cup per plant, to support microbial life and moisture retention. Water well to activate.

Keeping your soil healthy during hot weather is easy when you work with Mother Nature. Water deeply once or twice a week to encourage strong roots, protect the soil with living ground cover or a layer of mulch to lock in moisture, and use the wine bottle trick to provide a slow, steady water source while you're away. For an extra boost, apply activated and inoculated biochar around the base of your plants to improve moisture retention and support beneficial soil microbes. By giving your soil the care it needs, you'll help your garden stay healthier, more resilient, and better able to thrive through the summer heat.