Gardening advice for soil management and harvest preservation

As summer heat and changing weather patterns impact gardening, various experts and guides offer practical advice for maintaining gardens and preserving harvests.

To manage water and soil health, landscaper Matthieu Leblanc notes that hoeing (binage) can be as effective as watering by breaking the soil crust and preventing moisture from evaporating through capillary action. For lawn maintenance, experts suggest mowing weeds at a height of 6 to 7 centimeters to help retain soil moisture and prevent further colonization.

Harvest preservation is a critical focus. For potatoes, cutting foliage 2 to 3 weeks before harvest and ensuring proper drying is essential to prevent rot. Similarly, onions require a 2 to 3-week drying period (ressuyage) before being stored in cool, ventilated areas to avoid fungal issues.

For summer planting, gardeners are encouraged to use empty pots for quick-growing vegetables like radishes, lettuce, and arugula, which can be harvested in under 30 days. Additionally, managing garden structures involves understanding local tax thresholds for garden sheds and using silicone grease instead of WD-40 to maintain hose connections and prevent galvanic corrosion.