How to Water Your Lawn and Garden

With warming days approaching, many homeowners will soon be lugging out their garden hoses and sprinkler systems to make sure their lawns and gardens don't wither in the heat. Of course we all know plants need water to survive, but did you know there is a science to watering your lawn and garden? If you want to help your plants maximize their water intake and remain lush and green all summer long, here are some things to take into consideration:

• Think about when to water your lawn and garden. Doing this chore in the early morning or late evening greatly reduces water "burning off" under the hot sun. It leaves more H2O for plants to absorb!
• Do some research and find out what type of soil is on your property. If you have loam soil (which is a combination of silt, sand and clay) you will find water penetrates quickly and is easily stored for plants to use as they need it. If you have sandy soil in your lawn or garden, you quickly realize that water runs through it very quickly. This can lead to problems because; plants may not have enough time to absorb what they need. You can improve sandy soil by adding organic matter to it. Clay soil takes in water very slowly. You will have to monitor your water amounts to avoid over watering and creating run-offs. Go slowly, and let the ground absorb the water at its own pace. If you want to improve clay soil, try mixing in peat, moss or other organic compounds.
• When watering plants, try to loosen the soil around the plants. This will let the water penetrate more easily.
• To avoid over watering in general, follow the guidelines set by United States Department of Agriculture. They suggest placing a small tin can (such as a tuna can) on the lawn while you water it and when you see the can get full - stop watering!
• So which is better - shallow frequent watering or watering your lawn and garden deeply? The answer is: Watering deeply is the better method. If you are able to get the water to penetrate at least four (4) inches you will promote strong, deep root growth. This type of root growth helps plants process moisture and nutrients more effectively, which in turn, creates a lusher greener lawn.
• Plan to water your lawn about every six (6) days during normal summer weather. In times of extreme drought or heat, you may want to switch to a schedule of watering your lawn and garden every three (3) days. (Of course be respectful of any local watering bans which may be in place during these times!)
• As you choose a sprinkler or hose think about your property. If you have a large lawn or garden, you might want to think about purchasing a cascading sprinkler. They offer quicker, deeper saturation for your lawn and garden and less water waste. Watering any size garden or lawn by hand with only a hose is very difficult. If you use just a hose you may not water long enough or get enough moisture to evenly penetrate the ground.