The Dog Days of Summer is a period of hot and humid weather that typically occurs in July and August.
Specifically, it’s considered to be the 40 days beginning around July 3 and ending around August 11. This period coincides with the heliacal rising of Sirius, the Dog Star, which is part of the constellation Canis Major (Greater Dog). Ancient civilizations like Greece, Rome, and Egypt believed the rising of Sirius contributed to the extreme summer heat.
With Spring behind us the garden has now moved into the heat of the summer. Temperature changes can wreak havoc on your plants. Many plants that bloom in the spring, have entered into a summer dormancy.
Summer dormancy, also known as estivation, is a survival strategy where plants slow down or cease growth during hot, dry summer conditions. This allows them to conserve water and energy, ensuring their survival during unfavorable periods. After blooming the foliage may brown, wilt and die back. If you cut back (Deadhead) you may encourage a second flush of blooms.
Is Your Landscape Firewise!
With the recent Millcreek Apartment Fire and the current central and southern Utah Fires it is a great time to ask yourself:
Is My Landscape Firewise!
To create a Firewise landscaping in Utah, the primary goal is to reduce flammable vegetation and materials surrounding your home to limit fire spread. This involves creating “defensible space” with a focus on fuel reduction, plant selection, and proper maintenance within the “home ignition zone”.
For more information visit the USU Forestry Link: https://extension.usu.edu/forestry/resources/forest-fire/firewise-landscaping-basics