A Backyard Growers Guide to Beating the August Heat

Hey there, fellow cannabis enthusiasts! As we hit the peak of summer, August brings its scorching heat, and our beloved cannabis plants need a bit more TLC to thrive. As a home grower and medical cannabis patient, I've learned a few tricks to keep my garden green and happy even in the hottest month of the year. Here are some personal tips, hacks, and insights to help you care for your outdoor cannabis plants this August.

Hydration Hacks: Quenching Thirsty Plants

We all know hydration is crucial in the heat. Water your plants deeply and consistently, preferably in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. A trick I use is to create a small moat around the base of each plant. This helps direct water right to the roots where it's needed most. Another handy hack is using water-retaining crystals or hydrogels in your soil mix. These little beads can hold water and release it slowly, ensuring your plants stay hydrated longer.

If you're like me and have a busy schedule, setting up a simple drip irrigation system can be a game-changer. These systems deliver water directly to the roots, reducing   water wastage and making sure your plants get a steady supply of moisture throughout the day. You can easily find DIY kits online or at your local garden center.

DIY Mulch: Keep That Moisture In

Mulching is a game-changer for moisture retention. You don't need to buy expensive mulch – I use grass clippings from mowing the lawn or shredded leaves. Spread a thick layer around the base of your plants. This not only helps retain moisture but also keeps the soil cooler and discourages weeds. Another great mulch material is straw, which you can often get for free from local farms after harvest season.

If you're looking for a more decorative option, try using cocoa bean hulls. They not only look nice but also add a pleasant chocolatey aroma to your garden. Just be cautious if you have pets, as cocoa can be harmful to dogs. Whatever material you choose, make sure it's spread evenly and thickly enough to provide good coverage.

Protecting Your Green Ladies

Cannabis loves the sun, but too much can be stressful. Create some shade during the hottest part of the day using old bedsheets or shade cloths. You can also plant some tall sunflowers or corn nearby – they make great natural shade providers and add to the garden's aesthetic. Another option is to set up a simple frame with bamboo stakes and cover it with a light fabric to filter the intense sunlight.

Portable garden umbrellas are another versatile solution. They can be moved around easily to provide shade where needed most. If you're into DIY projects, consider building a small pergola or arbor over your cannabis plants. This not only offers shade but also adds a beautiful focal point to your garden. Remember, the goal is to protect your plants from the harshest sun without completely blocking out the light they need to grow.

Feed Your Plants Right

In the hot months, your plants might struggle with nutrient uptake. I like to brew my own compost tea – it’s like a nutrient-packed energy drink for your plants. Just steep compost in water for a few days, then water your plants with the strained liquid. It’s organic, easy, and super effective. You can also add a bit of molasses to the tea to boost the microbial activity, which helps break down nutrients and make them more available to your plants.

Using kitchen scraps for composting is another fantastic way to feed your soil. Banana peels are rich in potassium, which is great for flower development. Coffee grounds add nitrogen, which supports leafy growth. Eggshells provide calcium, helping to prevent issues like blossom end rot. Just make sure to crush them finely before adding them to your compost.

Additionally, I like to bury kitchen scraps directly in the garden. Dig a small trench or hole near your plants and toss in fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells. Cover it up with soil and let nature do its thing. This method not only enriches the soil but also attracts beneficial earthworms that help aerate and improve soil structure.

Let Them Breathe

Ensure your plants have plenty of space for air circulation. Pruning lower leaves and branches not only improves airflow but also directs energy to the main colas. This means healthier plants and better yields. When pruning, be sure to sterilize your tools to prevent the spread of disease, and always make clean cuts to promote quicker healing.

In addition to pruning, consider using a small fan to improve airflow if you're growing in a more enclosed area. Good airflow helps reduce the risk of mold and mildew, which can be a real issue in hot, humid weather. If you're in a particularly windy area, using garden stakes or trellises can help support your plants and prevent them from being damaged by strong gusts.

Natural Pest Control

Bugs can be a real pain, especially in the summer. Instead of reaching for chemical pesticides, try some household items. A mix of water and a few drops of dish soap works wonders against aphids and spider mites. For caterpillars, sprinkle a bit of crushed eggshell around the base of your plants – it’s a natural deterrent. Another natural pest control method is using neem oil. It's effective against a wide range of pests and is safe for your plants when used correctly.

You can also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory mites by planting companion plants such as marigolds, basil, and dill. These plants not only repel harmful pests but also create a more diverse and resilient garden ecosystem. If you're dealing with larger pests like deer or rabbits, try using homemade garlic or hot pepper sprays. These can deter animals without harming your plants or the environment.

Cool Down Your Plants

During extreme heatwaves, misting your plants with water can help cool them down. Just be careful not to overdo it to avoid mold. Another trick is to use frozen water bottles – place them around your plants in the afternoon for a temporary cooling effect. You can also set up a small kiddie pool or shallow container filled with water and place your potted plants in it. The evaporating water will help cool the air around your plants.

If you notice your plants are really struggling, consider creating a temporary shade structure using tarps or even large beach umbrellas. These can be set up quickly and provide immediate relief from the intense sun. Just be sure to remove them once the temperature drops to allow your plants to get the light they need.

The Foundation of Growth

Healthy soil means happy plants. I mix my soil with homemade compost and a bit of perlite to improve drainage and water retention. Adding organic matter like kitchen scraps (banana peels, coffee grounds) to your compost can boost its nutrient content and keep your soil rich and fertile. Another great addition to your soil mix is worm castings. These are packed with beneficial microbes and nutrients that promote vigorous plant growth.

Consider rotating your planting locations each season to prevent soil depletion and reduce the risk of disease buildup. Cover cropping with plants like clover or rye can also help improve soil health by adding organic matter and fixing nitrogen. Mulching with organic materials, as mentioned earlier, helps keep the soil cool, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.

Final Thoughts

Growing cannabis at home is a rewarding journey, especially when you see those beautiful buds thriving despite the summer heat. By using these tips and tricks, you can ensure your garden stays healthy and productive all August long. Keep experimenting, stay patient, and happy growing!