Stress. That frequently heard word of this generation. Some people meditate, do yoga or swim to curb it. But the lucky gardener knows to just walk outside. Whether designing and maintaining container gardens, weeding a vegetable patch or even mowing the lawn, there can be great relief in enjoying ones own little piece of paradise. But stress is not something exclusive to the human animal. What about the plants? Are they subjected to stress as well? You bet! Especially now. As you recall, our growing season got off to an accelerated start with a week of 80+ degrees in mid-April, giving the gently rousing flora a wake-up call that disrupted the entire natural cycle. Then, just as abruptly, the temperatures plummeted below the norm, sending our newly blossoming friends into a state of shock. The dog days of summer are usually reserved for mid-August, but this year it seems the entire season has been one long series of dog days. With the extreme temperatures and dry conditions, plants have struggled merely to survive, let alone develop a vigorous root system so important to its good health. Here's what you can do to help: A low nitrogen fertilizer applied to these ailing plants will help stabilize them for the onset of winter. Also be sure they are getting at least 1inch of water weekly (2 inches if under trees) to ensure a thorough watering prior to going dormant. Your plants will thank you and you'll both be a whole lot
less stressed.