August gardening tips for Southern California: Keep your garden thriving in the summer heat

August is one of the hottest months, so watering is crucial. Valley News/Karolina Grabowska (pexels.com)
Southern California’s long, warm summers call for a thoughtful approach to gardening in August. With temperatures often soaring and the dry season in full swing, your plants need extra care to stay healthy and vibrant. Whether you’re nurturing a flower garden, growing vegetables, or caring for drought-tolerant natives, here are key tips and tasks to keep your garden flourishing this month. 1. Water Wisely and Deeply August is one of the hottest months, so watering is crucial. Early morning is the best time to water to reduce evaporation and fungal issues. Aim for deep, infrequent watering rather than shallow, frequent sprays to encourage roots to grow strong and deep. Consider drip irrigation or soaker hoses for efficient delivery right to the root zone. 2. Mulch to Maintain Moistu
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