None Like it Hot: Even Sun-Lovers May Need Some Shade

Summer sun is good for our plants–up to a point. On the next You Bet Your Garden, Mike McGrath gives the lowdown on where and when your tomatoes might like you to throw them some shade. Plus: your fabulous phone calls!

Question of the Week:

“Greetings! I used to garden when I was much younger and I’m ready to try again now that I understand more of the do’s and don’ts. One thing you will find though, if you come here in the summer, is that it can get swelteringly hot. I plan to do some extensive container gardening in my treeless (and nearly shade-less) backyard, specifically tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and zucchini. What can be done to help my poor plants get through the hottest times of the year?

P.S.: your online questions and answers have already helped me get a leg up on my preparations! Thanks!”

—Matthew in Memphis, Tennessee

How much sun is too much?