It’s no secret that Canada is in a major dry spell right now. According to David Phillips, Senior Climatologist with Environment Canada, we are gearing up for a hotter-than-average summer season in 2023. Heat and air quality warnings will be sprinkled throughout the forecast while storms come and go. We will need a huge amount of precipitation to acquire a balance for crops, gardens and green space. This situation calls for increased attention to the maintenance of our outdoor spaces. The impact of the dry and hot weather extends beyond our gardens and crops, even affecting local air quality.
Maintaining Outdoor Spaces:
Keeping our green spaces healthy is more important than ever. Hydration is key! Regular watering and care improves plant health, making them more resistant to wildfire. An irrigation system is a great solution, helping you stay on top of watering while saving you money on your water bill in the long run.
Clearing brush once a year around the perimeter of your property can also help prevent or slow the spread of wildfires. Be careful not to overdo it though; too much clearing can have the opposite effect. A good rule of thumb is to prune trees within 100 feet of your home.
Impact on Air Quality:
Our green spaces improve our air quality, something that we are increasingly concerned about these days. Our outdoor spaces, including trees, gardens, and yards, play a crucial role in mitigating air pollution. They actually absorb and filter dangerous particles for us—thank you, nature! While the efforts of one yard may not single-handedly reverse pollution, it can certainly make a positive impact on local air quality. By maintaining and nurturing our green spaces, we contribute to cleaner and healthier air for ourselves and our community.
Entering the summer season under a province-wide fire ban and air quality statements can be really scary, but small steps can play a big part in protecting our properties and health. Stay safe out there!
