Sun and Water Don’t Mix

Even though the summer solstice is still a few days away, the summer weather is already here. For the past week the weather in my corner of the world has been glorious. Hot, but not too hot and a light breeze to diffuse the humidity level. The only thing missing is the occasional rainfall to protect the gardens from shrivelling under the sun. As a result, many people [myself included] are helping the garden out a bit by watering.

Here are a few watering tips to keep in mind:

Water during the cool of the morning or in the evening. Do not water in the sun. Watering in the sun results in a lot of the water being wasted through evaporation, as well as runs the risk of burning the plant due to the increased magnification of the sun’s rays through the water.

Water the garden not the grass. The only reason to water your grass is for it to ‘look nice’. Grass can survive dry spells. In contrast, garden plants, flowers, vegetables, herbs etc, often need water to grow properly.

Water the bottom not the top. Try to get as much water at the soil level rather then on the leaves. It is the roots of the plants that need the water. Often, water on the leaves evaporates before the plant can benefit from it.

Slow water is better then fast water. Water can be absorbed by the soil only so quickly; if you apply too much water too quickly it will just run off rather then be absorbed. It is better to apply some water, go to another section and then return when the water has absorbed.

New trees are thirsty. Planting a new tree is a great way to help the environment. One of the keys to the tree surviving is to keep it well watered for at least the first season until the roots get established. I like to give my new trees a good drink of water at least once a week, perhaps more frequently if it has been particularly sunny or the tree seems to be struggling.

Containers need more water. Plants in hangers or containers need regular watering as they have a limited access to water in their container.

Start a water fight with someone only if you are the one holding the hose!