When it comes to caring for your garden beds, watering your plants is a vital task in order to get the kind of lush, beautiful growth you want. To get the most out of your water, take these tips to heart.
Water Ban
There is usually a water ban put into effect for at least part of the Minnesota summer in many Twin Cities communities. These restrictions must be respected, but your plants still need hydration. During these periods, water them by hand with a watering can. It takes extra time, but you will be able to make sure each plant will get what it needs without losing water to run off or evaporation.
Grey Water
Although this option is controversial, gray water is another possibility. When you use eco-friendly soap and capture the water you used to rinse your dishes, it can be recycled into your garden. Bath water with minimal soaps or salts is also generally accepted, but only some communities approve of laundry water being used. Check with your local government to find out whether you can use gray water in your yard. There is some evidence that grey water can actually help plant growth.
Rain Barrels
Rain barrels for yard and garden watering are becoming more popular, especially from an environmental standpoint. Diverting rainwater from your downspouts into a storage container to save for later garden and yard watering is a great way to reduce your water use. This option is a double plus if you’ve got areas where excess rainwater run-off is a problem.
Tips
In addition to the above two pointers, use these tips to get the most out of your unique garden.
Wand
Use a watering wand to deliver water directly to the plant’s base instead of spreading it over the plants’ leaves.
Run-off
To avoid run-off, scratch the surface of the soil to break up a crusty layer to make it easier for the earth to soak up moisture.
Small Steps
Instead of giving your plants a lot of water at once, give each a little bit of water before moving to the next. After two or three rounds, they should have soaked up as much water as possible.
Water During Cooler Times of Day
To avoid sunlight from scorching your plants and evaporating water, hydrate them either before 9 am or after 5 pm. These times will ensure maximum absorption. If you do come across a sad looking plant in the middle of the day, direct water into the soil, and then incorporate it into your watering routine.
When you water intelligently, you’ll be helping to conserve a valuable resource while enjoying a beautiful garden at the same time.