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Hot, Dry Weather Taking Toll On Grass, Plants, Gardens

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The hot, dry weather is certainly a change from earlier this summer when it seemed like the rain would never end, but the problem now is, plants and crops are starting to suffer.

If this sun feels hot to you, imagine what it's been doing to your grass, flowers and vegetable gardens for the past few weeks.

We aren't quite at drought stage yet, but we are at what they call "abnormally dry," and there's no rain in sight.

"Rains have been so spotty," says Larry Voll, of Soergel Orchards. "Some areas are getting rain, but it seems to be avoiding us."

The lack of rain affects not just our moods, but it will impact things like crops.

Apples and pumpkins, staples at Soergel's in Wexford, are going to be smaller this fall because they just aren't getting enough water.

"A lot of the apples aren't getting the growth that they should at this point," said Voll. "But, on the bright side, the lack of rain is increasing the sugars in the apples, so the apples are getting sweeter."

And even though the summer started off very wet, your plants are probably dying of thirst right now.

"Most plants need about a quarter inch of water a week," says gardening expert Doug Oster. "If it doesn't come from rain, we have to supplement."

And believe it or not, a sprinkler may be easiest, but not necessarily the best way to water.

"Anytime you can get that water on there, get that water on the base of the plant," says Oster.

Oster joined "The KDKA Morning News" with Larry Richert and John Shumway and says don't be alarmed about your brown grass.

"[Lawns] are supposed to go dormant this time of year. Nothing to worry about," says Oster. "I would focus more on your vegetable garden and your flowers. Those are going to need watered."

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