End‑of‑Summer Survival Guide: Staying Resilient in the Dog Days
Houston’s dog days of summer bring extreme heat and thick humidity, but with a few smart strategies, your garden can stay productive through the final stretch of the season.
- Mulching — A 3–4 inch layer of organic mulch keeps soil cool, reduces evaporation, and protects roots. Wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves all work well.
- Heat‑loving crops — Okra, sweet potatoes, southern peas, such as, black eye peas, basil, Suyo Long cucumbers, and Malabar spinach thrive in late‑summer heat and transition beautifully into our warm fall.
- Feeding the soil — High heat speeds nutrient loss. A mid‑summer boost of compost or organic fertilizer keeps plants vigorous.
- Afternoon shade — Even a few hours of shade can dramatically reduce stress. Use shade cloth, trellises, or plant near structures that soften the late‑day sun.
