Water is vital to the success of your garden. You may be surprised to learn that a slow and steady stream of water is best for your garden, keeping the soil moist.
- Sprinklers, hoses or drips? With the summer heat and drought in our area, drip irrigation systems or soaker hoses work best. They provide a slow and consistent amount of water directly to the root of the plants. A consistent source of deep watering like this allows the water to reach the roots of the plants, and conserves water. If you must use a sprinkler consider an attachment that allows you to target the plants and area so the water is delivered where it’s needed.
- Mulch, mulch, mulch – Looking for another way to conserve water? Consider mulch in your garden. Mulch provides a layer of insulation allowing the water to penetrate deep into the room, avoiding quick evaporation. There are many types of mulch to choose from. Find one that you like and keep your garden and plants cool from the summer heat.
- How much water is enough? Did you know that vegetable plants need 1 inch of water per week? Mother Nature can help, use a rain gauge to measure weekly rain fall and supplement the rest with your soaker hose or drip irrigation system.