One of the most critical factors in both turf and plant care is watering. Regular and deep watering will ensure proper and strong root growth. Healthy roots are vital for droughts and to protect against nutrient deficiency in future years.
In full sun during the summer, some plants can dry out and die as soon as two days. If new landscape plants die, it is usually due to lack of water. During the growing season (mid-April to October), new plants should be watered every 2-3 days if there has been no significant rainfal (1/2" or more) in the intervening days.
To check the moisture and water needs, stick you finger in the soil around the plants. If it feels slick or greasy, you will need to let it dry some before watering again. If it is hard or dry, too much time has passed and it will need to be watered. Ideal soil will feel moist but crumble easily. Even if you have an irrigation system, you will still need to check your soil.
To water plants (if you do not have an irrigation system), it is recommended that you use a hose. Water each plant individually and count slowly to twenty.
For turf, maintaining optimum watering conditions promote deep rooting, disease resistance and insect resistance. Lawn watering is accomplished by hoses, by sprinklers set on timers, or by installing an irrigation system. To help you determine the best routine for your lawn watering needs, check the following guidelines.
1.) If possible, water your lawn between 4 and 6 am as temperature are lower and the evaporation rate is much slower.
2.) Lawn watering twice a week is usually sufficient; however, if there has been adequate rainfall, be careful of overwatering.
3.) Lawn watering is less necessary during the first weeks of spring.
4.) Use a garden house with a large diameter for efficient lawn watering.
5.) Use sprinklers that have a fine high sprays.
6.) Remember, all soil is different. An estimated amount of water for a healthy root system is 3/4 to 1 inch at each watering.
7.) Grassy areas on the south side of the house or those on a slope near sidewalks and driveways need to be watered more often.
8.) Use a root feeder or water aerator probes around trees and bushes so that water goes directly to the source of the need.(Remember, aeration encourages growth.)
9.) If you use a lawn watering system, be sure to set the system with moisture sensors so it does not "go off" during rainy weather.
The biggest factor with an automated irrigation system is to ensure everything is timed and working properly.
Taken from Stockner's Nursery Landscape Maintenance Guide
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