As many regions across the United States continue to experience dry conditions, gardeners are increasingly adapting to changing weather patterns, watering restrictions, and growing concerns about water conservation.
While drought has long been associated with the Southwest, prolonged dry spells are now affecting communities in various parts of the country, prompting homeowners and gardeners to rethink traditional landscaping and gardening practices.
To help gardeners navigate these challenges, The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released a new online resource focused on gardening during dry summer conditions in 2026. The guide includes a custom U.S. map highlighting areas that may experience drier-than-normal conditions this summer, along with practical recommendations for maintaining healthy gardens and landscapes while using water more efficiently.
The resource offers guidance for vegetable gardens, raised beds, container gardens, lawns, and ornamental landscapes. Among the strategies highlighted are the use of mulch to help retain soil moisture, drip irrigation systems that deliver water directly to plant roots, and the incorporation of drought-tolerant plants that can thrive with less frequent watering.
Water-wise gardening practices are also emphasized as an effective way to help gardens withstand periods of limited rainfall. Proper watering schedules, soil management, and thoughtful plant selection can all contribute to healthier landscapes during dry weather.
For gardeners seeking additional information, The Old Farmer’s Almanac provides several related resources, including a guide to drought-tolerant plants, a vegetable garden watering chart, and recommendations for easy-to-grow wildflowers.
Additional Gardening Resources:
• Drought-Tolerant Plants: Almanac.com/drought-tolerant-plants
• Vegetable Garden Watering Chart: Almanac.com/when-water-your-vegetable-garden-watering-chart
• Easy-to-Grow Wildflowers: Almanac.com/growing-wildflowers-selecting-wildflowers
The complete summer gardening outlook and drought-preparedness resources are available through The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
