Summer's End

Mammillaria Family; the Pincushion cacti

As we are nearing the end of the Summer heat, we humans may think it is nicer weather, but the plants may feel differently. We think that the plants should be looking better, but often plants are still showing results of heat stress. Often there is a lag period between signs of heat stress and the reduction of heat depending on the type of plant.

This is also a tricky time of year for watering, since the humidity usually goes up, thus reducing the plants transpiration, or water vapor given off through the plants stomata, and the plant's need for water. The heat is still here; due diligence is still required. As a general rule, when in doubt, do not water cacti. However, do water your deciduous, or leafy, plants regularly. Native plants still require water. And with the reduction of the monsoon rains, that is an absolute must for our desert native plants. How often to water, depends on the individual plants needs.