Summer Watering techniques for flourishing gardens
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Summer can be a challenging time for plants, especially those in greenhouses and containers that dry out quickly. However, there are many plants that thrive in dry conditions, making them ideal for gardeners looking to conserve water. Here's a guide to some drought-tolerant plants and their watering needs.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
Some well-known drought-tolerant plants include Lavender, Rockrose, Crape Myrtle, Aloe Vera, Agaves, Bougainvillea, Lantana, Sage, Yarrow, and more. These plants require very little watering during summer and are prone to overwatering issues.
Watering Frequency
During the establishment phase (typically the first year), drought-tolerant plants need watering every one to two weeks, depending on weather conditions. After establishment, they usually require far less frequent watering, and deep, infrequent soakings are recommended to encourage deep root growth and drought resilience. For potted drought-tolerant plants, daily checks are advisable because pots dry faster.
Optimal Watering Times
Watering before 9 AM can help reduce evaporation, and employing mulch can help retain soil moisture. Newly planted drought-tolerant species benefit from watering at planting in autumn or spring when soil conditions promote deep rooting.
Water-Loving Plants
On the other hand, plants like Hydrangeas are water-lovers and will wilt quickly if not watered. Plants requiring moist conditions, such as Lobelia, and those in greenhouses and containers need more watering than mature trees or drought-tolerant shrubs like Cordylines and Aeoniums.
Prioritizing Watering
Prioritizing watering based on plant needs can save time and water. For example, seedlings, cuttings, young plants, and plants recently planted, as well as those in a greenhouse or conservatory like tomatoes and cucumbers, need watering every day or two. Similarly, plants that require plenty of water, such as Brassicas, should be watered regularly.
Other Tips
Agaves require infrequent rain to survive, while Spinach is prone to bolting and should be watered consistently. Ornamental willows are tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long periods. Lettuce, especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop, needs regular watering. Tree ferns should have their trunks watered daily to create humidity.
In conclusion, understanding the watering needs of your plants can help maintain healthy plants through summer heat while conserving water. Signing up for a newsletter can provide access to gardening advice and inspiration. Unsubscribing is always possible.
Here are two sentences that contain the words 'lifestyle', 'home-and-garden', 'gardening':
- An eco-friendly lifestyle can be adopted through home-and-garden practices, such as choosing drought-tolerant plants for gardening to conserve water during the summer months.
- For those with an interest in home-and-garden pursuits, learning about watering needs of different plants can be a rewarding aspect of gardening and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
