With the extreme temps we've been experiencing recently, it's important to keep your landscaping well hydrated!
From The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach site:
These watering tips apply to all areas of the landscape…
- Check soil moisture frequently and water only when needed. Irrigation is needed when the soil feels dry to the touch down 1 or 2 inches.
- Water the root zone, not the foliage. Roots absorb the water, and wetting the foliage doesn't provide moisture the plants can readily use. Plus, wet foliage is more likely to have disease issues!
- Water slowly, deeply, and infrequently. Avoid a quick splash that can promote shallow rooting, leading to poor drought tolerance.
- Water in the morning to allow wet foliage to dry quickly in the morning sun. Morning watering also ensures the plant is fully hydrated as it goes into the hottest part of the day.
- Thoroughly wet the entire root zone. Apply water until the soil is moist to at least 5 or 6 inches. Unsure how deep it is? Water and dig a hole to see.
- Use mulch to help conserve soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Mulch can be used in nearly all garden settings, including vegetable gardens and containers.
- Don't overwater. Check the soil moisture frequently, but only apply water when the soil is dry to the touch 1 or 2 inches down.
- Set an alarm or timer on your phone so you remember to turn off sprinklers, drip irrigation systems, or soaker hoses. Water timers can also be purchased to avoid running water unnecessarily.
- For garden areas such as annual beds, containers, hanging baskets, and vegetable gardens that require frequent watering, set up a watering system such as soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems. Assemble them in spring before plants get large. These systems can help save time and provide water directly to the root zone.
- If you will be away from your garden for more than a few days, have a family member, friend, or neighbor water. Newly planted plants and containers cannot go for long periods without water.
