***This article was written by Angela Mason Foster, Beaufort County Master Gardener***

In Eastern North Carolina’s Zone 8a, summer often comes in fast and furious. One moment we’re relishing the last spring blooms, and the next, we’re wiping sweat from our brows just minutes after stepping outside. But for many of us, the garden still calls—even when the thermometer climbs.

The solution? Rethink your gardening schedule. Shifting your work to early morning or evening hours can help you stay safe, productive, and even more connected to the rhythms of your garden. Whether you’re tending tomatoes, pruning shrubs, or just trying to stay ahead of the weeds, the coolest parts of the day are the smartest times to be outside.

The Science of Timing

Summer temperatures in our region often peak between 2 and 4 p.m., but by 10 a.m., the heat index can already exceed safe levels—especially with high humidity. According to the National Weather Service, heat-related illnesses increase dramatically when the heat index climbs above 90°F. And unfortunately, many gardeners are so focused on finishing a task that they miss the signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.

Early morning (just after sunrise) and early evening (about an hour before sunset) are golden windows. Not only is it safer, but the garden is at its most peaceful—bathed in golden light, filled with birdsong, and often with a light breeze that makes the experience genuinely restorative.

Safety First

Here are a few safety reminders for summer gardening:

• Hydrate before, during, and after your time outside. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty.
• Wear light-colored, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Use sunscreen, even in early hours, especially on your neck, arms, and ears.
• Pace yourself. Set a timer to take a break every 20–30 minutes.
• Learn the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, headache, and excessive sweating.

Remember, the goal is not to “push through” the heat. It’s to enjoy the garden safely and sustainably—one step at a time.

Creative Time-Saving Strategies

Even when you garden during cooler parts of the day, time is still limited. Here are a few ways to get the most out of your morning or evening gardening sessions:

1. Work in 20-minute increments

Set a small, specific goal: deadhead the zinnias, prune one row of shrubs, or harvest what’s ripe. This avoids overwhelm and makes gardening feel achievable.

2. Stage tools the night before

If you’re a morning gardener, set your gloves, tools, and water bottle by the door before bed. That way, you can get out quickly without fumbling around in the dark or wasting precious cool time.

3. Use the “bucket method”

Bring a five-gallon bucket or old laundry basket and walk the garden in the evening, collecting weeds, fallen produce, or flowers to bring inside. It’s an efficient way to tidy up and do a quick health check on your plants.

4. Water smart

Mornings are the best time to water—less evaporation and lower risk of fungal diseases. Use soaker hoses or watering wands to get water right to the roots without wasting time or water.

5. Use headlamps or garden lanterns

If your evenings extend past dusk, consider wearing a headlamp or placing solar lanterns along your beds. They add atmosphere and make it easier to spot pests, harvest vegetables, or finish that last chore.

Benefits Beyond the Weather

Gardening during these quieter hours offers more than physical comfort. Many gardeners find early mornings and evenings to be emotionally grounding. The slower pace helps foster mindfulness, reduce stress, and build a stronger connection with the land.

You’ll also see more wildlife—from hummingbirds and dragonflies at dawn to toads, bats, and night-flying moths in the evening. You might even discover signs of nocturnal garden pests that are otherwise missed during the day.

Suggested Reading List

1. The Well-Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart-Smith
   A fascinating look at the connection between gardening and mental health.
2. The Garden Primer by Barbara Damrosch
   A practical, well-loved guide to gardening that’s especially useful for beginners.
3. Bringing Nature Home by Douglas W. Tallamy
   Ideal for Eastern NC gardeners interested in native plants and ecological gardening.

Final Thoughts

Gardening shouldn’t be a test of endurance. By shifting your habits and respecting the heat, you can protect your health and deepen your enjoyment of the garden. Whether you sip coffee while pulling weeds at sunrise or unwind by watering containers at twilight, these moments are gifts—reminders that gardening is not just a chore, but a way of life.

So this summer, beat the heat. Let the garden greet you in the soft light of morning or the gentle hush of evening. You—and your plants—will be better for it.

If you have questions about your home garden or landscape, reach out to Gene Fox, Consumer Horticulture Agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. Email Gene at gene_fox@ncsu.edu or call (252) 946-0111. Master Gardeners are available on the Greenline Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to assist with your horticultural needs. Don’t forget to check out the Beaufort County Master Gardeners Facebook page for additional resources.