Planting Desert Spoon During the Heat

Q. I purchased six each, 5-gallon sized desert spoons but I haven’t planted them since it’s been so hot. Should I plant them in the early morning when it’s about 90 degrees F? I have watered them three times a week.

This desert spoon is in a container. The container is too small and it may not have enough soil or amended soil in it. Also it may need to be watered more often.

Two headed desert spoon. The central growing point (bud) probably died and the plant suckered.

A. It's not the best time of year to plant them but yes, if you are going to plant them, plant them at a time during the day when it's cooler and plant in wet soil. I think the major problem is the sunlight and not temperature. Never plant in a dry hole. In other words, make sure the hole has been filled with water the day before, or at least the soil is wet when it's planted. If you elect to plant during the heat, plant as quickly as possible so the roots don’t dry out. Planting in a dry hole during the heat of the day is a common mistake made by contractors.

The hole dug for this container was a bit larger than needed but you get the idea. University of Arizona recommends a planting hole three times wider than the container. So in your case three times the width of a 5 gallon container. How deep its dug is only important when the soil does not drain well. A hole filled with water should drain overnight.

            The hole for planting should be dug three times the diameter of a 5-gallon container, even if it’s a “xeric” or desert plant. It’s not important to dig the hole deep unless it’s necessary. Every time you water, the water should wet all the roots to a depth of 12 to 18 inches.

Root depth of plants is directly related to their height. Refer to https://wateruseitwisely.com/saving-water-outdoors/plant-watering-guide/