Keeping a Healthy Garden Through Dry Season

Through the dry season beach communities in the arco seco, (the dry arc) of Panama see very little rain. This means plants need water daily. In dry hot weather watering at night is best, as it helps from water evaporating before it is absorbed into the soil. If you are watering during the day try not to get the leaves of the plant wet, as water droplets can create a magnifying effect and scorch the leaves.

When leaves wilt, become limp or turn yellowish brown the plant is suffering from drought. One way to know if your plant is thirsty is to test the soil. It is important to check below the topsoil, if it is dry that means the plant should be watered.

The quality of the soil will play a big part in keeping your plants happy and healthy at any time of year. Adding organic mulch will improve the quality of soil and help and retain moisture. Organic mulches include coconut husks, chopped up leaves, grass clippings, and manure or compost.

With the dry season comes a stronger wind, so make sure your plants are protected. If your plants are already in the ground a mesh wrapped around the growing area is one way to protect your garden. A more permanent way to battle the wind could be to build a green house.