Gardening Through the Dry Times — How Americans Are Adapting to a Thirstier Summer | KNCT

Longer dry stretches, stressed lawns, watering restrictions, and rising concerns about water supply are changing the way many Americans think about gardening — and not just in the arid Southwest. From the Carolinas to the Great Plains, homeowners are beginning to rethink what it means to care for a yard in a warming, drying climate.

As summer 2026 approaches, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is stepping in with a new online resource designed to help gardeners adapt. Their latest tool highlights regions across the United States that may face drier‑than‑normal conditions this season, offering practical guidance for anyone looking to keep their landscape healthy while using less water.

At the heart of the resource is a custom U.S. map that pinpoints areas most likely to experience prolonged dry spells. But the real value comes from the Almanac’s hands‑on advice — the kind that helps everyday gardeners make smart, sustainable choices. Whether you tend a backyard vegetable patch, a collection of containers on the porch, or a full suburban lawn, the Almanac’s guidance focuses on working with the weather instead of fighting it.

Gardeners will find tips on mulching to lock in soil moisture, using drip irrigation to reduce waste, and choosing drought‑tolerant plants that thrive with less water. There’s also advice on caring for lawns during heat and dryness, including when to water, how to mow, and when it’s best to simply let the grass rest.

The message is clear: dry summers don’t have to mean giving up on gardening. With thoughtful planning and water‑wise practices, Americans can continue to grow, plant, and enjoy their outdoor spaces — even when the rain clouds stay away.