Central Pennsylvania Gardening Tips for Beating Heat, Japanese Beetles and Summer Plant Diseases

• Asia Tabb
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  Asia Tabb is the Host and Producer for WITF’s The Spark.
  
  She began her start in radio when she joined legendary radio/ host producer, Doc Christian. She worked closely with Doc for her role on “The Gospel Express, on WHOV 88.1 FM and was a host for “Unrestricted Praise” at Praise FM.
  
  Previously she was an anchor in Shreveport, Louisiana at KTAL/KMSS. Asia also worked as a Multi-Media Journalist at WHP-TV here in Harrisburg, PA.
  
  Asia got her break into news at KTVO in Ottumwa, Ia. While the 2020 caucuses were gearing up. Asia followed many candidates through their campaign trail from Senator Cory Booker, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, and 46th President of the United States Joe Biden.
  
  Asia was born and raised in Norfolk, Va. She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a major in Communications.
  
  Asia is extremely friendly so don’t be afraid to say hi if you see her out and about.

Love ’n Fresh Flowers’ purple baptisia are attractive to bees. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)

aired; July 23, 2026

Summer may be peak growing season, but it also brings some of the biggest challenges for gardeners across central Pennsylvania.

During the latest edition of The Spark’s monthly gardening conversation, horticulturist Erica Jo Shaffer discussed the seasonal issues affecting gardens throughout the region and shared practical tips for keeping plants healthy through the hottest months of the year.

Central Pennsylvania experiences hot, humid summers that create ideal conditions for fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, early blight and leaf spot. Shaffer explained that proper plant spacing, watering at the base of plants and removing diseased foliage can help reduce the spread of these common problems.

Gardeners are also seeing an increase in Japanese beetles, which feed on flowers, vegetables and ornamental plants, as well as continued damage from deer browsing. While occasional heavy rainstorms may provide temporary relief, periods of drought stress can still take a toll on lawns, gardens and landscapes, making consistent watering practices especially important.

Shafferencourages gardeners to monitor their plants regularly, address problems early and adapt their gardening routines as summer weather changes. With the right care, even during challenging conditions, gardens can continue to thrive throughout the season.

Listen to the podcast to hear the conversation.