Should I Change What I Plant In The Garden This Year Because Of The Drought?
KPIX 5 Morning Weather Anchor Roberta Gonzales answers the questions you never get to ask on-air.
Q: I love gardening, but there's this drought going on. Should I be planting something different? - Brad in Palo Alto.
A: Hands down, tomatoes are absolutely the most popular home-grown vegetable. And for me, tomatoes can also be the most frustrating, especially the past two years!
There are so many varieties of tomatoes and depending on what microclimate you live in, determines what tomato is best suited for you.
Breeders continue to develop tomatoes which strengthen to grow in less-than-favorable conditions. The key is knowing what to expect from your climate and then choosing the variety for success. Your local neighborhood Garden Nursery can advise you.
Today is the first of April and this kicks off the two busiest gardening months, April and May. Almost all warm season vegetables, herbs and annual flowers are planted during these two months. When June arrives, expect to see your efforts rewarded!
Tips for success during drought: Adding compost is important for nutrition, but so is a well-balanced organic fertilizer without too much nitrogen. Consistent deep watering is recommended now to establish roots, then when the hot summer days arrive, the roots can with stand less water. Decrease the frequency of watering when the fruits are full size to increase the intensity of flavor. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases and precious water lost in the wind. Drip watering is best.
Drought Tolerant Vegetable Ideas:
- Rhubarb-once mature is drought resistant.
- Swiss Chard
- 'Hopi Pink' corn
- Asparagus-once established
- Jerusalem artichoke
- Green Striped Cushaw squash
- 'Iroquois' cantaloupe
- Okra
- Peppers (My favorites!)
- Armenian cucumber
- Sage
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Lavender
- Rosemary
Good luck and please keep me posted how YOU are reducing water and still maintaining a yummy garden!
I would love to hear from you! Please send weather questions, observations and photos to me, Gonzales@kpix.cbs.com and I look forward to hearing from you!
