Despite drought conditions continuing to impact many regions, gardeners have discovered their plants can survive despite receiving less water. This just goes to show that most gardens are actually overwatered.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Plants need water to sustain good strong healthy growth and the only way plants can take up water is through their roots. It's important to maintain adequate moisture levels for garden plants.
Soil is porous and will hold some moisture even after it has stopped being applied and drained, however not all soils retain moisture adequately for healthy plant growth. Soils water holding capacity can be improved by:
- Adding organic matter in the form of garden compost, animal manures, mushroom compost, and worm castings.
- Mulch garden beds with an organic mulch of 50mm thickness (never mulch a dry soil).
- Lightly cultivate soil to ensure good water infiltration.
- The use of wetting agents may also be beneficial in some cases to assist with water penetration.
The challenge gardener's face is how much water to apply. Too much and soils will become waterlogged. Apply too little and surface rooting will be encouraged which means plants will become water stressed on hot days as the soil surface dries out.
Mixed plantings generally require approximately 10-20mm of water every 10-14 days during the warm months. Check the penetration of water as additional water may be required. A good deep soaking for established plants is more beneficial than numerous light applications. Deep watering encourages deep rooting which gives plants resistance to drought stress as the surface level of soils dry out.
Whether water restrictions apply or not, there are simple guidelines for good watering practice in any garden, these are;
- Only use hoses with a trigger nozzle and direct water at the root zone of plants.
- Water before 10am and after 4pm to avoid the heat of the day.
- No hosing of hard surfaces such as paths or driveways.
- Washing vehicles on lawns to conserve water on site and avoid runoff.
- Select plants that are drought tolerant for the garden.
Be water wise this growing season and make every drop count.