How farmers prepare for the seasons. Summer is here what tips can farmers give us (hobby farmers) for prepping soil and proper management. Etc.
Summer means lots of sunshine and a great deal of fun for children who are out of school. While many head outside during the summer months to enjoy the beautiful weather, hobby farmers know the summer months are the busiest part of the year.
The summer season is a special one for farmers who can look forward to the fall harvest while knowing their seeds are sown in the ground. The challenge now is to make sure crops are able to grow and thrive over the next several months amid (often) hot temperatures and a dry climate.
While words like drought can seem overwhelming to a hobby farmer, there are a few steps that be followed to make sure plants survive the summer season. Keep reading to learn how farmers prepare for the summer.
Get An Idea Of Your Water Supply
A hobby farm will quickly fail if there is no water during the summer. An ideal property would have a well or a river close by that can provide a source of water to thirsty plants.
It is important to take advantage of these natural sources in conjunction with municipal water supplies. Solely relying on municipal water can lead to high costs and eventually result in water restrictions if there are drought conditions in the area.
If possible, try to capture any rain if there is a short shower during the summertime. Rain barrels and water tanks can capture and easily store any precipitation.
Try to water during the earlier parts of the day when the weather is cooler. Using a soil moisture meter is a smart way to see what parts of your hobby farm need more water. This helps maximize your resources while ensuring the right plants get the nourishment they need.
Prepare Your Soil For Healthy Growth
Healthy soil will always retain water more effectively than one without any organic matter. Add compost to your hobby farmland to keep the soil healthy and consider constructing swales to ensure water gets into the soil.
A swale will slow down water and give it more time to absorb into the soil. Maximizing water during the summer months is very important, and a swale can help keep the soil nourished while preventing water from quickly evaporating in the hot sun.
Some hobby farmers will also constrict irrigation systems, like drip lines, to water in a targeted manner during the summer. Drip lines can help save water by cutting down on overspray.
Hard Work In The Summer Leads To A Lot Of Reward
While it can be difficult to go and work on a hobby farm during the hot summer months, taking the time to properly water and prepare soil can pay big dividends once the crops are ready to be harvested.