The Foolproof Way to Water

One of the more confusing things about taking care of a yard and garden is determining how to water it. Many people water at the wrong time of day, and much of the water is wasted in evaporation. Optimum watering time is early morning of evening. Many people water too much or too little, or do not distribute the water evenly over their garden and lawn.

To begin with, it is important to know the quality and consistancy of your soil. Sandy soil dries quickly and the plants would need more frequent watering. Clay soil can only take a short watering session before run-off occurs. The general rule of thumb for lawn health is one inch of water each week. This can be easily determined by placing an empty can - anything that is a perfect cylinder - in the area of your sprinkler. When there is an inch of water in the can, you have given your grass an inch of water.

Watering gardens is a little different. Many people do water their gardens right along with their lawns. That is convenient and easy. However, some plants may be succeptable to fungus or other diseases if the water is left on their leaves. Soaker hoses and drip irrigation, laid at the roots of your plants, is an excellent way to combat this.

Conserving water already in the soil is an excellent way to avoid having to water frequently, especially in hot summer months when water restrictions may be put into place. Mulch traps moisture in the soil, as do ground cover plants. Cut your grass two to three inches long in the summer months. Things stay damp longer in the shade!

With a little planning, watering your garden and lawn won't waste either the water itself or your time and energy.