Keeping your lawn and garden healthy during the hot summer months requires carefully watering your plants. However, many homeowners make common watering mistakes that can damage or even kill their plants and lawns.
If you're looking to have a thriving garden, here are watering mistakes to avoid.
Using Too Much Water
Overwatering is one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make. When you water too much, you saturate the soil and drown the roots. This cuts off their supply of oxygen, causing root rot. Plants with rotting roots turn yellow, wilt, and eventually die. Only water when the top few inches of soil are dry. Apply water until the soil is moist but not soaked.
Watering During the Hottest Time of the Day
Watering when the sun is highest in the sky on hot days leads to rapid evaporation, wasting water. The hot sunlight can also scorch wet plant leaves. Instead, aim to water in the early morning or evening when it's cooler. The cool temperatures minimize evaporation, allowing more water to soak into the soil where plants need it.
Frequent Watering
Some gardeners think watering a little bit every day is best for their plants. However, this approach encourages roots to stay near the surface seeking moisture instead of growing deep down. Plants with shallow roots easily dry out and get damaged. It's better to give your garden a deep, thorough soaking once a week during summer. This trains roots to extend farther down seeking that deep moisture.
Failing to Monitor Soil Moisture and Health
Not all parts of your yard have the same watering needs. Hot, sunny areas dry out faster than shady spots. Various soil types also drain at different rates. Sections of your lawn or garden may require more or less frequent watering. Check soil moisture periodically with a probe or by digging down to see if sections need more or less water. Watch plant leaves for signs of underwatering or overwatering distress and adjust as needed.
By avoiding these common watering mistakes, you'll have a lush, healthy lawn and garden to enjoy all summer long. Pay close attention and water wisely!
