Garden ready for summer

[Grumpy Toad]

I've have had issues the last couple years with my tomatoes getting sunburned. This really came to a head last summer when it reached 117 degrees F (47 C). I lost most of the tomatoes that were getting ripe and never saw any more flowers set. I also lost a good amount of peppers.

This year I'm using a 40% sunscreen to protect the fruit. Used some ideas from https://makerpipe.com/ to build a frame and I think it's going to help a lot.

[HRH]

Looking good. We are so behind this year as had a rather large project going on here.
This should protect your toms.

[Realmed]

I've have had issues the last couple years with my tomatoes getting sunburned. This really came to a head last summer when it reached 117 degrees F (47 C). I lost most of the tomatoes that were getting ripe and never saw any more flowers set. I also lost a good amount of peppers.

This year I'm using a 40% sunscreen to protect the fruit. Used some ideas from https://makerpipe.com/ to build a frame and I think it's going to help a lot.

How's the plants doing this year? My tomatoes and some of my peppers got trashed from a hail storm. They are coming back, my peppers are starting to bloom. Anyhow peppers and tomatoes need shade, in the wild they grow under trees. Also they only need 12/12 when starting or growing indoors imo.

[Grumpy Toad]

So far things are doing well. I'll have to wait until the really long hot spells to see how well the screen helps. Fingers crossed.

[Realmed]

How's the garden doing? My pepper plants haven't done to bad but like always my super hots are a pain. My Anaheims are setting pods well now. Just picked up a black diamond crape myrtle, really like

[Afzalkhan]

It sounds like you're taking some innovative steps to protect your tomatoes and peppers from the harsh sun! Using a 40% sunscreen is a smart move, especially in extreme temperatures like those you've experienced. Building a frame for shade, inspired by the designs on Maker Pipe, can provide the necessary protection to prevent sunburn and heat stress on your plants. This setup not only shields your fruits from direct sunlight but also helps maintain a cooler environment around them, which is crucial for their health and productivity.

For additional protection, you might consider mulching around the base of your plants to help keep the soil cool and retain moisture, which can further alleviate stress during heat waves. Regular watering, especially during peak heat hours, can also be beneficial. Keep an eye on the effectiveness of your new setup and adjust as needed—it could be a game-changer for your garden's success in extreme weather!