Old Farmer’s Almanac Advises Gardeners on Preparing for Drier 2026 Summer

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has issued guidance for gardeners ahead of a hotter, drier-than-normal summer in 2026. The long-range outlook projects above-average temperatures for much of the country and uneven, often below-normal rainfall that could increase stress on plants, soil, and water supplies.

The Almanac states that dry conditions are expected to extend beyond the traditional arid West and Southwest into the High Plains, northern tier states, and parts of the East. Regions listed include Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Idaho, Montana, Michigan, the Northeast, the Ohio Valley, the Southeast, and Florida.

Gardeners are advised to water less often but more thoroughly so moisture reaches 6-8 inches into the root zone, to apply compost and mulch, and to install drip irrigation or soaker hoses. The Almanac also suggests prioritizing essential plants, grouping species by water needs, and selecting drought-tolerant or native varieties such as lavender, coneflower, yarrow, Russian sage, and black-eyed Susan.

It warns against shallow, frequent watering, overhead sprinkling, and waiting until plants show visible wilting before adjusting care.