Best Time of Day for Yard Work

I love working in our yard, but I don't like getting super hot and sweaty. Becoming overheated will not only send me to a state of unnecessary, perspiring grumpiness, but it's dangerous too, especially if you are older, have a heart condition or other sensitivities aggravated by heat.

Here are a few tips I've picked up over the years, and though there is no new information stated here, it's always good to be reminded:

• Get up early to tackle all quiet chores such as weeding, watering, planting, mulching, etc. There's no noise to bother the neighbors, and it's THE coolest part of the day. Catch up on any missed sleep during the hottest part of the day, if you can. Weeding or turning sod is always easiest right after a good rain - take advantage of it if you can!



• Twilight is also a great time for working in the yard and no one cares much about the noise if you are using the mower or the blower. (Be careful about what kind of watering you do before nightfall though - without the sun to burn it off each day, there is a greater chance of mold, mildew, diseases, etc.)



• Try to avoid doing any kind of strenuous work outside in the heat of the day (10am-3pm.) If you must work midday, stay in the shaded areas: north and west during the mornings, east and south in evenings. Even during the coolest parts of the day, if I'm getting warmer than I like, I'll work back and forth between sunny and shaded areas to cool down periodically.



• Stay hydrated with lots water or sports drinks. Your body perspires as a way to cool itself, but needs replenishment often. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will dehydrate you, no matter how refreshing at the time of consumption. However, there's nothing that says you cant enjoy a tasty margarita or cold beer when dehydration is not an issue!



• Wear light colored, loose fitting, moisture wicking fabrics.



• Protect your skin and eyes with sunblock, sunglasses and a hat if needed. Remember the often forgotten areas: back of the neck, ears, scalp, hands, and feet.



• Avoid next day stiffness and muscle fatigue: stand up and stretch often.

I hope you have a great summer!