Cool, wet weather of spring is a thing of the past and it looks like we are in for a hot, dry growing season. Plants are starting to require some supplemental water. Any trees and shrubs that are newly planted should receive regular water all summer long. They need help until they put out enough roots to take care of themselves. Mulch also helps to keep plant roots cool and to retain moisture.
Whenever possible, water early in the day. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation are great ways to efficiently and frugally water live goods. These watering tools disperse water slowly so that it can soak into the ground. It is also more economical because it puts the water where it is most needed without as much waste. When using a water hose, keep the pressure low and allow the water to soak the soil around the plants. Use a nozzle made for watering plants. These nozzles give a low pressure, soaking spray. Keep the cheap high pressure nozzles for what they were intended-washing cars!
Container plants must be watered regularly. They dry out faster because they are above ground. There again, soak pots slowly to allow the water to get to the roots instead of pouring over the side of the pot.
Lawns are a different story. Cool season grasses like fescues can go for 5 weeks without water. They may off-color a little but it won’t hurt them. As soon as rain occurs the lawn will green right up. Watering the lawn causes it to become dependent on extra water and can quickly become a hardship on the homeowner and it’s not good for the lawn either. During dry weather cut back on mowing and allow the grass to get a little taller. This helps shade the plant crown from hot summer sun.
So, Burke County gardeners, it looks like you’ve got some soaker hoses to hook up and mulch to put out. If it’s any consolation just know that dry summers mean fewer disease problems-that’s what we call finding the silver lining.
