Two Great Flowers for Summer Outdoor Pots by Amy Norwood

Plectranthus 'Mona Lavender' All photos by Amy Norwood

Outdoor flower pots are a joy of summer.  As with all plants, the rule “right plant, right place,” applies to flower pots.  Your flower pots will look their best if they are planted with flowers that match the pot's location in sun or shade.  Here is a suggestion for a pot in each place.

Heatwave in the Garden: how to identify and prevent heat stress in plants

 (Reposted from Oregon State University Extension June 2021)

When a heatwave hits, plants may show the impact.

• Most plants grow best in temperature ranges 59-86F.
• When temperatures above 90F are sustained for long periods, plant growth is slowed, and some plants begin to show signs of stress.
• Above 104F, many plants will survive but will show different signs of heat stress dependent on plant type, maturity of the plant, and factors that often come with high temperatures, such as drought or wind.
• Extreme air and soil temperatures slow down chemical activity and growth in plants.

What are signs of heat stress in plants?