Plant Care During Monsoon Season

Plant Care During Monsoon Season in the Desert

Monsoon Season is one of the most interesting times of year for an Arizonan. Hot days are interrupted with brilliant thunderstorms that can bring impressive rains and intense winds. Our plants are even more excited for these summer rains than we are.

Native plants are accustomed to these weather patterns and are often drought-deciduous. This means they intentionally lose their leaves during dry spells and regrow with gusto after heavy rains. Non-native plants used in landscaping often have a more difficult time making it through the summer. Here’s how you can help your garden landscape thrive during this unique season.

What Types of Plants to Plant

The best times to plant your landscaping for the year are in the fall and the spring, but sometimes planting needs to be done during the summer. Whether it’s a good idea to plant something during the summer depends on the species.

• Native Plants: If it’s a native plant like a palo verde, ocotillo, or barrel cactus, you can expect the plant to survive and even thrive. These plants are well-adapted to the monsoon season and the local climate.
• Non-Native Plants: If you’re planting something that requires lots of water or isn’t accustomed to the erratic weather of the Arizona summers, the transition from a cozy nursery to a bright sunny yard may put the plant into shock and cause damage or death. Easing these plants into their new environment is crucial.

Tips for Non-Native Plants

• Deep Watering: Give non-native plants a few deep soaks with a hose during the first month they’re in the ground. This helps them establish strong root systems.
• Shade Protection: Consider putting a 50% shade cloth on top of their youngest foliage to protect them from the intense sun.

Should You Fertilize During the Summer?

Fertilizing during the monsoon season requires caution:

• Avoid Chemical Fertilizers: It’s best to hold off on using chemical fertilizers between June 15th and September 1st. The heat can cause chemicals to burn the roots.
• Organic Options: Fully organic liquid fertilizers, such as those from FoxFarm, are usually safe to use. Liquid fertilizers are absorbed quickly and are less likely to cause root burn.
• Mineral Supplements: You can also give plants minerals any time of year. Powders like Azomite and liquids like Superthrive are full of vitamins that strengthen plants' immune systems during tough times.

How Much Should You Water?

Every plant has its own water needs, but generally, more water is needed during the summer than in the winter.

• Observe and Adjust: If plants look droopy every day around 4:00 PM, they may need more water. This is the hottest part of the day, and a little extra watering in the late afternoon can help.
• Post-Rain Adjustments: After a heavy rainstorm, turn off your irrigation for a day or two. Overwatering is still a risk, even during the monsoon season. Watch for signs of overwatering, such as yellowing leaves that sag and fall off.

Covering Plants

Providing shade and protection can be beneficial during extreme weather:

• Shade Cloths: Use shade cloths to protect young and sensitive plants from the harsh afternoon sun. A 50% shade cloth can reduce stress on these plants and help them acclimate better.
• Wind Protection: Secure taller plants or use barriers to protect them from strong winds that accompany monsoon storms. This helps prevent breakage and damage.

Monsoon season in Fountain Hills, AZ, brings unique challenges and opportunities for plant care. By choosing the right plants, adjusting your watering schedule, using fertilizers wisely, and providing appropriate protection, you can help your garden landscape flourish even during the most extreme weather conditions. For more personalized advice, consult your local nursery or gardening experts.