WATERING ISN’T EASY
Here we are in late April. A lot of planting has been done this month when it comes to all the beautiful perennials, annuals, shrubs, and trees. The number one challenge for all these newly planted plants is being cared for properly, especially when it comes to watering.
In fact, being a proficient waterer is an incredibly valuable skill for the home gardener and is one that takes years of practice and a good dose of observation.
Now, this past week Mother Nature gave all our plants a good soaking. But, if you have lived in Central Virginia, then you know we cannot always rely on Mother Nature to do all our needed watering. The fact of the matter is that good watering practices can save you time and money.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR THE HOME GARDENER FOR A WATER WISE GARDEN:
WATER INFREQUENTLY, DEEPLY, AND THOROUGHLY
Water less often, but for longer. This will encourage deeper rooting and greater tolerance to dry spells.
USE CORRECT WATERING TECHNIQUES
Water early in the day especially as the weather warms to reduce evaporation loss. So, water early in the morning. Water less often for longer length of time to encourage deep root growth.
MULCH SOIL SURFACE
Mulching cuts down on water loss due to evaporation. A two-inch layer of mulch or compost is recommended. Apply mulches to shrubs, trees, annuals, vegetable gardens, and even containers.
AMENDING CLAY SOIL
Water does not easily penetrate clay soils and water passes too quickly beyond the root zone of plants in sandy soil. Adding organic matter to clay and sandy soils will increase the penetrability of clay soils and the water holding capacity of sandy soils.
INSTALL A DRIP OR OTHER WATER CONSERVATION WATER SYSTEM
Slow drip around the dripline of the plant can save up to 60% of all water used in garden care. Don’t rely on a sprinkler system to do a good job of watering. A sprinkler system may be good for the lawn, but not for garden beds.
My advice – Do your due diligence when it comes to learning when and how to water the plants properly. Every plant has different needs when it comes to watering.
PLANT A LITTLE HAPPINESS!!!!!!