“The morning had dawned clear and cold, with a crispness that hinted at the end of summer.”

~ George R.R. Martin, American novelist

Once again this summer, a heat wave hovers over much of Southern California. Was it just a dream of cooler days or did I actually need a sweater and light blanket at the beginning of the week? Nope, evening and nighttime temperatures honestly dropped down into the 60s. It was a nice reprieve … while it lasted. Even though it’s now September and the arrival of autumn is fast approaching, summer-like weather normally hangs around through October. The forecast for the next few days gives proof.

As the heat continues, the energizing fun of spring gardening has become a tiresome chore. Flowers have bloomed and faded, most vegetables and fruit have finished bearing and the remaining foliage is dry and bedraggled. It’s the time of year when trees and plants desperately need our TLC, but I’m so tired of watering and watching plants turn brown. The following are a few suggestions to help plants (and us!) make it through these final days.

We’re no rookies when it comes to hot weather. Follow the guidelines set forth by the fire department and health departments to keep your family safe. Don’t forget the furry family members as well. After people and pets are cared for you may want to consider the yard. Did you know what a large shade tree is worth? Shade and aesthetics are a given, but property value? The Coastal live oak or Deodar cedar trees seen throughout La Crescenta come with a real estate tag of  $15,000 or more. To me, they are priceless.

So where and in what order do you place your time, energy and money? Let’s see, will it be a 100-plus-year-old tree, a $10 shrub or a $2.99 pony pack of flowers? Hmmm…

Get a jump on the upcoming 100-plus degree temps. Tonight after sunset give your yard a good long drink. Give special attention to those most treasured. Place a soaker hose or let a regular hose drip around the dripline (the outermost reach of the branches) of your trees. Don’t forget folks and fidos need water too!

According to the National Weather Service, today Mother Nature is turning up the oven and leaving the door open. An extraordinarily large area of high pressure is hovering over “the west.” Meteorologists are monitoring closely as fire and health concerns are heightened. Keep cool and enjoy Labor Day.

Sue Kilpatrick is a Crescenta Valley
resident and Official Skywarn Spotter for the
National Weather Service Reach her
at suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.

  Sue Kilpatrick