Landscaping is investment ..not an inexpensive one either…

So how can we protect our investment with our changing climate and extended periods of dry – extreme conditions?

A garden landscape needs to be thought of like other structural forms, such as a Home. A solid foundation is where it most start. In this case , good nutrient rich well draining soil, helped along with composting and fertilizing, is the base from which to start.

Determining sunlight exposure – shade verse full sun is also extremely important for plants to thrive. And finally, the thing we have the most immediate control of , Water..!

Most cases of disease and insect invasions are helped along by a plants weakness due to inadequate watering which leads to poor root development and overall decline of health.

NOTE:
Most plant failures are directly linked to improper hydration.
Without further ado, let’s talk about the three ‘HOWS’ of proper watering.
A. How to deliver water
B. How to tell when to water
C. How Much

1. Delivery

Since 2010 native designs has aggressively promoted the use of Drip-line irrigation systems for ALL new garden installations. We offer them at the most reasonable cost possible to achieve the greatest return on investment.. A beautiful landscape.

Another great tool are Water bags

Each bag zip up around the base of the tree/plant and is filled with 10-20 gallons of water. The bottoms of the bags have tiny holes for the water to drain slowly over a few hours to get right down into the roots.

2. How to tell

When we see plants wilting – looking limp – yellowing and dropping leaves, normally, that is a clear sign of the plant needing water buuut… don’t always assume.

It’s best first probe or with a shovel, pull some soil from beneath the surface to make sure it’s not wet before watering. Over watering can show similar signs to underwatering. I see this particularly with Hydrangeas and some perennials. Usually though… it’s a sign the plant needs more water.

3. How Much

We have basic guidelines on how much water is enough for each plant can be based on the size and species of plant being watered. – quantity in gallons and frequency should be adjusted as to account for natures contribution and time of year.

Watering DEEPLY each time is very important to get plants to produce more roots further down in the soil. Building more drought tolerance A good rule of thumb is providing a soaking, two or three days per week rather than a little each day.

When you are watering by hose some things to consider, first. Don’t use a pistol grip type of nozzle. They do not deliver enough water efficiently rather opt for a wand or even an open hose valve with less pressure to insure water doesn’t run off of the surface.

Below are some basic water requirements per plant size of perennials, shrubs, and trees.

Perennials – container sizes #1 to #3 should get watered every 5 days with 2 to 5 gallons each watering.

Reminder: frequent light watering is not beneficial and encourages shallow rooting.

Shrubs – most shrubs should be watered every 5 days, every 3 days in extreme conditions, Appling 5 to 7 gallons of water each time.

Trees – most trees should be watered every 7 to 10 days with 20 gallons ( the size of most water bags) each time however, during hot and dry spells, especially…for first year plantings, twice week will be needed but be sure to reduce when weather gets cooler. Too much of a good thing = root rot..

I am always available to discuss watering for your specific situation and help create an irrigation plan for your landscape and gardens. Ether an automated system or a simple scheduling routine using basic water principles.