West Michigan Is Entering A Drought, Here’s How to Help Your Garden Survive It

If your lawn is looking a little crispy and your petunias are thirstier than usual, you’re not imagining things, parts of West Michigan are now officially experiencing drought conditions.

According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report, areas of Ottawa, Allegan, and southwest Kent counties are now classified under “Moderate Drought” (D1), with neighboring communities in West Michigan falling into the “Abnormally Dry” (D0) zone.

West Michgian, Drought, dry yard, sprinkler

Towns like Holland and Grand Haven have received as little as 1.57 inches of rain since June 1st, which is more than 3 inches below normal for this time of year!

And while the skies may look almost cloudy at times, that hazy layer of wildfire smoke lingering over the region is doing more harm than good right now because it’s drying out the atmosphere and reducing the chance of rainfall reaching the ground. It's just like what we saw during 2023’s smoke-filled summer.

So, how do you keep your plants from drying out during this harsh weather?

Smart Ways to Keep Your Plants Hydrated During a Drought:

As drought conditions develop, it’s important to keep an eye on your plants, especially Michigan favorites like hydrangeas, black-eyed Susans, tomatoes, and native wildflowers. Here’s how to help them survive until the next good soaking rain:

1. Water Deeply, Less Often
Instead of frequent shallow watering, give your plants a deep soak early in the morning a few times a week. This encourages strong root growth and reduces evaporation.

2. Mulch Is Your Best Friend
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch (wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves) around plants to lock in moisture and keep roots cool.

Edging Garden

3. Prioritize the Most Vulnerable
Young plants, veggies, and anything newly planted should be at the top of your watering list. Established perennials can typically handle short dry spells better.

4. Skip the Fertilizer for Now
Fertilizing during a drought can stress your plants. Hold off until they’re better hydrated and rain is in the forecast.

5. Collect What You Can
If a light rain does come through, set out buckets or use a rain barrel to collect runoff for later use. Your water bill will thank you for the help.

Next: 7 Poisonous Plants You'll Find in Michigan ⬇️

Until Mother Nature turns the faucet back on, a little effort now can help your garden thrive through the dry stretch. Stay tuned to local forecasts, and keep that hose handy, just in case West Michigan’s next rainy day is still a ways off.