Trying to get seeds to sprout in the August heat can be difficult.  The ground drys out faster because the protective mulch has to be moved out of the way exposing bare soil, and the sun is so oppressive that many plants won’t survive a day of full sun when they have just popped out of the ground.  A way to help is to provide shade.  If you are using wood-framed raised beds, this is pretty easy to do.

Use 3 pieces of 1/2″ PVC electrical conduit.  PVC water pipe is also usable, but the electrical conduit has the benefit of UV protection, so it should last a good bit longer.  Attach the ends of each pipe to an edge of your raised bed frame.  I just drilled holes in the pipe and used exterior screws.  Holes can also be drilled in a 2×4 to provide a hole for the pipe to sit in.  Lay a fabric such as burlap, greenhouse shade cloth, or window screen over the pipes and secure with zip ties, rope, or specially made snap clamps.

This hoop structure provides a way to provide shade in the summer and can also be used along with clear plastic to create a greenhouse in the winter.