Summers in DC can be brutal, and this year is no exception. But that doesn’t mean your garden has to suffer. Whether you're tending to a raised bed at Noyes Park or growing herbs on your windowsill, there are simple ways to protect your plants from extreme heat and keep your garden healthy.

Read on for our favorite tips to help your flowers, veggies, and pollinator plants stay cool, hydrated, and thriving all summer long.

Water Smart, Not More

During extreme heat, it’s tempting to water frequently. But the key is to water deeply and at the right time of day.

Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation.
Use a soaker hose or watering can to deliver water directly to the roots.
Avoid wetting leaves during peak sun, which can cause scorching.

Apply Mulch to Conserve Moisture

A layer of mulch acts like a protective barrier for your soil.

Apply 2–3 inches of mulch such as straw, shredded bark, or dried leaves around your plants.
Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Organic mulch also enriches the soil as it breaks down.

Provide Shade for Vulnerable Plants

Some plants struggle with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Create shade using row covers, shade cloth, or lightweight fabric draped over stakes.
Prioritize protecting leafy greens, young seedlings, and herbs during peak afternoon sun.
Move potted plants to partially shaded areas, if possible.

Hold Off on Fertilizing

Fertilizer can put added stress on plants during a heat wave.

Avoid feeding your plants during extremely hot periods.
Resume fertilizing once temperatures normalize and plants show signs of recovery.

Prune Selectively

Plants already stressed by heat should not undergo heavy pruning.

Gently remove scorched or damaged leaves to improve airflow.
Avoid major pruning, which can lead to additional stress and water loss.

Choose Heat-Tolerant Varieties

Image of a black-eyed Susan, courtesy James St. John on Flickr, licesned via Creative Commons.

For future planting, consider species that thrive in high temperatures.

Flowers such as black-eyed Susans, zinnias, echinacea, and marigolds tolerate heat well.
Vegetables like peppers, okra, and eggplant are well-suited for summer conditions.
Native plants and pollinator-friendly species are especially resilient in local climates.

Interested in getting involved in Noyes Park? Join our garden events or learn more about supporting our 2025 Halloween Parade and Party!