There's no doubt about it: summer has arrived in Evanston. Longer days and warmer temperatures mean more weeds, watering, and pests. Who said gardening was easy?
Our gardeners have some tips that might help you tackle some of these challenges. It won't make it easier, but it might make it more rewarding.
Early summer in an Evanston vegetable patch. Photo by Aleka Sullivan. Vegetable Tips
Your tomatoes are growing well, but don't forget to stake them – they'll thank you – and most importantly, they're thirsty so water them generously and regularly.
Not only do peppers add a spicy kick to your dishes, but they also add a splash of color to your garden. Try mixing and matching different colors, like yellow, red and green, or plant them in your flower beds.
Keep an eye out for aphids – a little soapy water spray will do the trick.
Herbs are rewarding to grow. They're easy to grow and great for cooking. There are so many to choose from – basil, coriander, parsley, mint, oregano, thyme, and more. Plant them in your vegetable patch or in a big pot just outside your front door so they're easy to access when you're cooking. If you give them enough space, your herbs will double in size. Harvesting regularly will help them become bushier and the leaves will become more flavorful. It'll feel like getting a haircut – who doesn't love a fresh hairstyle?
Say goodbye to sprinklers! Advanced drip systems and watering hoses offer a more targeted approach, delivering water directly to the roots. They also reduce evaporation, so it's well worth the initial effort. Perfect for vegetables, flowers, shrubs and trees. A game changer for water conservation and plant health. Not to mention the time, energy and muscle pain you'll save from running sprinklers and watering by hand.
Use a soil amendment with a balanced mix of compost, bone meal and Epsom salts, which will refresh the soil and give your plants the extra care they need.
Picking off spent flowers will help them bloom for longer and keep your garden looking fresh and colorful.
Find out about beneficial nematodes, tiny worms that live naturally in the soil. Organic home gardeners love these nematodes. They are an effective, non-chemical way to control pests. If you're not familiar with them, there's plenty of information available online. There are many beneficial nematodes, so consult a knowledgeable garden center to find the right beneficial nematode for you.
Enjoy your garden and I'll see you next month.
