Here we are amid a July heatwave with very little rain in the forecast for the foreseeable future. That means we are (I'm sure) all concerned about our gardens & spending plenty of our free time ensuring they get enough to drink. The following are some tips on maximizing your time & the health of your garden
1) Check it Out:
- Place your finger deep into the soil. If the soil is moist 2-3inches below the surface, your garden is probably ok for water for the moment.
- Check the weather forecast. Even a brief rain can bring more moisture to your garden then hand watering.
2) Timing is Everything:
- It is best to water your garden in the early morning. This will help ensure your garden has the water it needs to get through a hot day ahead of it.
- Don't water in the mid-day. MOst of the water will evaporate before getting to your plants, and water drops on your precious leaves, fruit or flowers can magnify the sun and cause burning or damage.
- You can also water in the early evening
3) Water Deeply & Less Often:
- It is important that water gets to your plants roots. It is better to water less frequently for a longer amount of time than to water for a brief period everyday.
- Water the surface of your soil & not the leaves of the plants. This will help water get to the roots.
- Check after you have watered. Scrape off the top layer of soil with
your finger & see if the water has permeated. You may be surprise by
how long it actually takes to get water to your roots of your plants.
4) Mulch!
- By adding a layer of mulch (straw, bark, woodchips) to the top of your garden you can help the soil hold moisture. YOu wiil have to water less often & it will help control weeds!!
5) Rain Barrels:
- Consider buying & using a rain barrel to maximize rain water when it does fall from the sky.
