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As summer brings the double punch of high temperatures and low rain to many parts of the country, a smart gardener steps up his or her game, too. Check out these tips for a long-blooming summer border:

Deadhead regularly. Remove the flowers off your plants after they fade, usually with a small pair of snips. If the blooms are not removed, the plant will expend energy producing seed. When deadheaded properly, the energy is redirected to other parts of the plants, and can often result in a second round of blooms.

Fungal disease is cause by two principal ingredients: high heat and humidity. While not usually lethal, fungus certainly can make your plants less attractive. Promote air circulation between and through plants by spacing them several inches apart. Try not to water your plants from above; use a soaker hose instead.

Pay attention to your watering schedule. The best way to promote a deep and healthy root system is to water deeply on an infrequent schedule. The amount of water varies based on a number of factors. However, it is safe to say that under normal conditions, established perennials need little supplemental water. Annuals, though, require about an inch of water each week.

Follow these practices regularly and you’ll find your beds and borders in top form and with blooming plants through the season.

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