| I have planted lots of seeds this year and it is so hot that they are just not growing well. What can I do? |
| I can imagine your disappointment when seedlings do not thrive. This probably has more to do with your soil condition than with the hot summer weather. Seedlings need moist soil to grow into healthy plants and poor soils will dry out quickly. Next time you sow seeds, be sure to prepare the soil first by incorporating organic matter to help loosen the soil and help it retain moisture. Spread a 3-4 inch layer of compost or other organic matter over the soil and dig it in to a depth of 6-8 inches. Then smooth the bed and sow your seeds. When the plants emerge, mulch over the bare soil around the plants with additional organic matter. This will help slow evaporation, moderate soil temperatures and suppress weeds, which will get your seedlings off to a good start. Be sure to water deeply so the roots go deep into the soil. Hope you have better luck with your seeds next year! |
