Thriving Yards: A Guide to Watering Your Garden
Seven Drought-Busting Watering Techniques Garden Professionals Employ
Ready to transform your yard into a lush, vibrant oasis? Proper watering is the key to growing a healthy, sustainable garden. But here's the dirt - many homeowners are either underwatering or overwatering their plants, causing unnecessary harm. Let's dive into the top seven watering practices to revamp your garden game!
Embrace Smart Watering
Everyone needs a chill pill when it comes to watering. Campbell Vaughn, UGA Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent, warns that most homeowners overwater 85% of the time while underwatering the rest. A well-functioning irrigation system only takes you halfway there – remember to adjust it with the seasons to prevent overwatering.
Let it Rain
When the skies open up, embrace it! Kerry Smith, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System Home Horticulture associate, suggests viewing irrigation as a supplement to rainfall when it's absent. Use a rain gauge to measure rainfall and ensure your plants get what they need. In the winter months, you can even put the hose away altogether as plants go dormant during these months.
Weather Apps: Your New Best Friend
Before powering up the sprinklers, check your local forecast on a weather app or the news. Delay watering if rain is predicted in the next 24 hours.
The Time is Now (Morning, that is!)
Water in the early morning – between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. – for optimal results. This timeframe reduces evaporation and the risk of fungal problems, ensuring a healthier yard.
Observe the Signs
Want to be sure your plants are thirsty? Look for signs like wilting or faded colors before watering. Once you see these signs, apply around ½ to 3⁄4 inches of water and don't water again until symptoms return.
Plant Wisely
Mother Nature knows best, so why fight her? According to Michael Arnold, Ph.D., Professor of Landscape Horticulture and Director of The Gardens at Texas A&M University, plant native species that are acclimated to your local climate. A well-designed garden can minimize your workload and maintain a harmonious relationship with Mother Nature.
Deep Water, Deep Roots
Deep watering means providing plants with a thorough soaking, encouraging roots to reach deep into the soil. Trees, shrubs, and flowers all benefit from deep watering, promoting stronger root systems and more resilient plants.
Striving for a stunning, sustainable yard has never been easier - all it takes is the right watering techniques! Let's champion clear skies, vibrant gardens, and a healthier planet with every watering session.
Did You Know?
- Most plants generally need about one inch of water per week during spring and summer.
- Deep watering allows water to penetrate deeply into the soil, minimizing water consumption and promoting healthier roots.
- Trees, shrubs, and flowers prefer big, infrequent drinks rather than constant moisture. And remember, roots need some stress to keep growing!
- Overwatering leads to runoff and pollution, making plants more susceptible to diseases and insects.
Gardening ideas such as deep watering and planning with native species can help create a sustainable garden. To properly care for your garden, consider using a rain gauge and weather apps to manage watering based on local forecasts. Southern Living magazine offers lifestyle tips for home-and-garden enthusiasts, providing advice on lawn care, garden tools, andsmart watering strategies. Embrace smart watering practices to have a lush, vibrant oasis that thrives with less effort.
