Summer Garden Watering
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Sprinklers turned over will help hydrate soil. Check your hose, too for any damage. (Photo by Charlotte Ekker Wiggins)
Summer Garden Watering
I just emptied 2.5 inches of rain water from my rain gauge. We’ve had quite the two weeks of moisture but I also know this could mean another streak of hot, dry weather. Good time to think about the best way to water a summer garden.
First test the soil. I poke a few inches down with my finger to see how dry the soil is. I tend to check close to new plants still establishing their roots. I want the soil to be moist around their roots.
In hot weather, the plant tops may also die back but it’s the roots that are important. As long as we keep the roots moist, the plants should survive.
Best watering is in the morning. This allows water to soak in before it evaporates from heat and dry wind. It also allows the leaves time to dry out if they get splashed, and plants will have the moisture to draw from during the heat of the day. Late afternoon is second best, just be sure the foliage will dry out before nighttime. Avoid watering in the heat of the day because water will evaporate much faster and any overspray on the leaves can cause them to burn.
Water at the base of the plant. I use a watering wand. When I can’t find it, I stick my hose into the ground. And I’ve been known to turn over my sprinkler.
Check your hoses for any cuts and leaks. Don’t be in a hurry to replace, leaky hoses can help hydrate a larger soil patch.
Wind dries out plants quickly from moisture lost through the foliage—the larger the leaves, the more moisture lost. Protect plants with barriers, such as a structure made with a shade cloth, or locate them out of wind-prone areas.
Fruits and vegetables need consistent water to produce well. Don't let them go completely dry before watering them again. This can cause problems like blossom end rot or cracked tomatoes.
Containers dry out much faster than the ground and need more frequent watering, especially if they are placed in full sun or exposed to wind.
Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch, such as bark, pine needles, or shredded leaves. This will help hold moisture in the soil.
If water puddles, apply a small amount of water to soften the surface. Come back a few minutes later and add more to make sure it soaks in thoroughly.
Brown leaf edges and/or yellow leaves can signal over-watering. Make sure you're checking before adding more.
Plants benefit much more from a slow and deep watering than a quick splash. Make sure you’re watering deep enough to reach the root ball.
If summer vacation is going to keep you away for more than a day or two, setting up watering on a timer is well worth the effort.
Recycle plastic bottles as a deep watering system. Poke holes in the bottle and bury next to plants with the top opening exposed. Add water to the bottle through the top and the water will leach out slowly deeper into the soil.
Unglazed clay pots are more porous than glazed or plastic pots and allow water to evaporate faster. This may be good during wetter times of the year by allowing the soil to drain better and not get soggy, but keep an extra eye on them during drought or hotter weather.
