Quenching Their Thirst

The Importance of Proper Watering

Once your tree, plant or garden has been planted, nothing is more important to its ability to thrive than water.  When provided too little water, plants are unable to develop properly and become more susceptible to damage from pests.  Too much water can of course be equally bad.  In soil that is kept too moist plants become prone to rot and other disease.

How much is enough?

In most cases, the gardener needs to supplement natural rain water.  The question of how much and how often are a matter of judgment.  But always keep in mind, you can most definitely water too much.  Don't waste water or risk over watering.

Outdoor plants and lawns need 1 inch of water a week.  All sprinkler systems outputs differ.  Even if one area of your yard, lawn, flower bed or garden gets one inch when you water with a sprinkler system or hose, another section may only get 1/2 inch or less, (or maybe even more than an inch).  This is due to uneven soil heights, consistency of soil, sunny or shady areas, placement, or may other factors.

In order to be sure each section of the area is getting proper watering you must divide the area into zones based on that areas needs.  Buy a water gauge or use small plastic dishes from the kitchen.  Place a container in each zone of your yard as they may vary in each area.

To test and determine the needs of each area you can place a small container (water gauge, empty butter dish, small bowl, cup, ect) in several areas when you water or when it rains.  Check each container to see the amount each actually received,

You can then water each section according to that area individual needs and eliminate inconsistencies in the growth and productivity of your plants, trees, lawns and gardens.

Perhaps one section needs to be watered several times a week while others only once a week or less.

Good luck and good gardening.

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