As the hottest country in Europe, it’s no secret that Malta is synonymous with summer droughts. It’s not uncommon for full months to go by before we start to see a decent amount of rainfall, particularly in July and August.
Keeping your plants quenched and happy during the time can feel like an ongoing struggle. Droughts in Malta can be long or manifest as short but extreme single-season droughts.
During the winter months, you might just be able to get away with forgetting to regularly water your plants but the summer months are a different story. Still, regardless of that, it doesn’t need to be as daunting as it seems and can also be a fun way to get more involved with your hobby, especially if you are just getting into it.
We spoke to Laflafett, experts in agriculture and horticulture, to get some tips and advice on how to enjoy bountiful harvests and ensure your plants, seedlings, fruit and vegetables stay cool even during the toughest and driest of months.
This one might seem obvious but when water is precious, it pays to be extra prudent. This means concentrating water where it’s needed such as leafy plants to avoid wilting and seedlings that struggle to germinate in such conditions.
This extends to anything contained within a pot, no matter how big that pot is, as well as vegetable plants.
If you are able to, the best option would be a drip irrigation system which delivers water directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and ensuring your plants get the moisture they need.
This one might seem obvious but when water is precious, it pays to be extra prudent. This means concentrating water where it’s needed such as leafy plants to avoid wilting and seedlings that struggle to germinate in such conditions.
This extends to anything contained within a pot, no matter how big that pot is, as well as vegetable plants.
If you are able to, the best option would be a drip irrigation system which delivers water directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and ensuring your plants get the moisture they need.
So you might be on top of the water issue, ensuring your plants are plenty nourished and yet, you are still seeing them struggle.
This is likely due to shade - no matter how much water you give your plants - something about the sun’s heat evaporates water quickly and the air is still warm and humid.
Your best option would be to prioritize shading for plants that need it the most but this isn’t always possible. Another solution would be to use a shade cloth. Simply place a number of sticks in and around your plants and put a shade cloth over them during those particularly hot days.
This will still allow some light to penetrate without exposing your plants to the full intensity of the sun.
Additionally, consider planting taller plants or using garden structures like trellises to provide natural shade.
Compost is a must in any summer drought, giving much-needed nutrients for your plants as well as providing a barrier between the sun and the soil. This dramatically slows down evaporation and helps retain soil moisture.
Organic materials, such as straw, grass clippings, or wood chips, also improve soil health as they decompose, creating a more resilient and fertile environment for your plants.
Gardening in Malta’s intense summer heat can be a challenge, but with careful planning and smart techniques, you can keep your plants healthy and productive. By using water efficiently, protecting your plants from harsh sunlight, and enriching your soil, you can create a thriving garden even during the driest months.
Remember, every plant and garden is unique, so observe your plants closely and adjust your care routines as needed.
Laflafett can provide you with all the essential supplies you need to get started or upgrade your current equipment and supplies.
Their range of products is suitable for both professional farmers and garden hobbyists.
For more information, contact them today at 99403 342.
St Joseph House , Bingemma, L-Imgarr, Malta MGR 2601
+356 2157 4758
agrispec@gmail.com www.laflafett.comLaflafett Co Ltd is an agricultural company based in Malta. Established in 1995, the company seeks the best raw materials for cultivation being it in soil or soiless. Hereunder, you will find o...
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