We are having a mini heat wave here in PA, with temperatures in the high 90’s! Many of you know that I’m a Master Gardener Alumni through Penn State, so I want to share some watering tips with the gardeners out there.

Summer means that our landscape is up against incredible odds for available water: drought, excessive heat and plant competition.
Here are some tips to help your plants win the battle for water. Your plants will thank you for it!

Avoid using soft water. Water softeners add salts which accumulate in the soil and obstruct water retention.

When you water your plants, get as close to the roots as possible. Invest in a water wand extension to save on bending. If you use drip-irrigation or soaker hoses, make sure the hoses are close enough to plants for proper use.  Also check faucets, hoses and connections

for leaks and replace as needed.

• When you water is as important as how you water. Plants receive a deeper soaking from morning watering because the ground is cooler and there is less evaporation.
• Mulching plants is a great way to retain water. Mulch also helps by regulating soil temperature and discouraging weeds.
• Weeds compete for precious moisture and nutrients in a garden. Crowd weeds out by planting your plants as close together as you can, minding recommended distance. Pull existing weeds as soon as possible.
• Consider paths made of mulch, crushed stone, or stepping stones instead of concrete to allow water to permeate the soil and raise the groundwater level.
• Redirect rain spouts to barrels, or onto gardens, beneath trees and shrubs, or onto yards.

Houseplants:

• If your home is on the dry side, consider a humidifier or place plants in a tray atop a single level of pebbles. Fill the tray with water. As the water evaporates it raises the humidity. Grouping plants also contains water released as they transpire.
• If your home is damp and you use a dehumidifier, remember to save the water for your houseplants and outside container plants.

Take control when it comes to watering your yard and garden. Water is a precious resource and not only the lifeblood of our garden, but of all living things.