The Old Farmer’s Almanac says uneven rainfall and above-average temperatures could place added pressure on gardens in many regions this summer. The publication advises early preparation to reduce water stress and improve plant resilience. The forecast reflects broader climate trends identified in long-term temperature records and points to changing conditions that may affect how Americans manage gardens and landscapes.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has issued guidance for gardeners ahead of summer 2026, warning that hotter conditions and inconsistent rainfall could create widespread challenges for plant growth across large parts of the United States.
According to the Almanac’s long-range outlook, above-average temperatures are expected to dominate much of the country, while rainfall patterns may become uneven and, in many places, fall below normal levels. Those conditions can accelerate moisture loss and increase pressure on both plants and soil.
The warning comes alongside broader climate observations. According to data analyzed by Climate Central using records from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), summer temperatures have increased in about 97 percent of major U.S. cities since 1970. For gardeners, that trend means greater evaporation, drier soil, and increased exposure to prolonged dry periods.
Dry Conditions Expected Across Multiple Regions
The Almanac indicates that dry conditions are not expected to remain confined to traditionally arid parts of the country. According to the forecast, the West and Southwest are again expected to experience hot and dry summer weather, accompanied by below-average rainfall. Similar conditions are projected for parts of the High Plains, including areas of Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska.
The publication also highlights a broad northern corridor where extended dry periods may emerge. This area includes parts of Idaho, Montana, and the northern Plains before extending eastward into the upper Midwest, including parts of Michigan. In these regions, longer intervals between rainfall events may reduce the soil’s ability to retain moisture.
The pattern is also expected to reach further east. According to the Almanac, parts of the Northeast, sections of the Ohio Valley, areas along the Atlantic coast, and parts of the Southeast and Florida may experience periods of limited rainfall, even where occasional storms occur.
Gardeners Advised to Focus On Water Use and Soil Health
The guidance emphasizes adaptation measures designed to help gardens withstand dry conditions without increasing unnecessary water use.
According to the Almanac, gardeners are encouraged to water less frequently but more deeply so moisture reaches six to eight inches into the root zone. Watering in the early morning is also recommended to reduce losses caused by evaporation during hotter parts of the day.
The publication advises improving soil moisture retention through compost and organic matter while using mulch to reduce evaporation and help maintain cooler soil conditions. Efficient irrigation methods, including drip irrigation and soaker hoses, are also recommended because they deliver water directly to plants. Gardeners are advised to prioritize vegetables and recently planted areas where water resources become limited.
The Almanac also cautions against frequent shallow watering, watering leaves directly, overwatering, and delaying action until visible signs of plant stress appear. It notes that healthy soil and careful planning may improve resilience during extended periods of heat and reduced rainfall.
Enjoyed this article? Subscribe to our free Newsletter for engaging stories, exclusive content, and the latest news.