I only have time to write today because it is too hot for outdoor work. Yesterday, the whole family went to collect seed early. By just 10 am our little one showed signs he was getting hot, so we had to pack it up for the day. Heat illness is sneaky. You won't see it coming. In my twenties I could power through anything. I've had heat exhaustion many times, but always bounced back without a thought. Closing the gap on 40, things are different. I can feel my heart work harder above 90F. As a mom, I am all too aware of my mortality and the imperative that I stay healthy and continue to be there for my family - my kid!
Farmers and outdoor laborers will still be out there. Factory workers are still working too, often without air conditioning too. But take breaks guys. Look out for one another. Get good sleep and drink water. Make it a habit. This is "the new normal." Climate change will continue to blast us with extremes. We can no longer afford to be unprepared or naïve.
PSA out of the way, what does this week bring for a native plant nursery?
Well...it means increased vigilance. We don't have shade cloth yet (we're hoping to purchase for 2024) and might need to shuttle plug trays in and out for a few days. Other plants are actually shade-grown here, just like they would be in the woods. They will be fine. Other full-sun material might have a bit of sunscald on it at the market this weekend. I continue to be impressed at how much insult these native, wild-collected plants can tolerate though. It's as if they evolved with a harsh Midwest climate for centuries. Oh, that's right. They did, in fact.
And some watering tips for this week:
Don't water because you're thirsty. Check the soil of your plants. I smudge it on my neck or back of my hand. Those areas are best at perceiving moisture. If they are wet, watering will only increase the chance of root rot. Some plants actually close their stomates, the tiny holes in the leaves that "breathe" and allow plants to pull water from the soil, through the plant and into the air, and won't take up much water while it's so hot. Always check your soil moisture before you water.
When you do water, give a long, saturating drink.
Exception to the rule - the soil is bare and hot or very warm to the touch. I have given a cool-down drink in these situations. It's brief and just enough to take the heat off in the afternoon.
I hope this helps. Stay safe out there!