As we progress into summer, it won’t be long before it’s time to pull out the irrigation equipment. Most plants, including turf, vegetable gardens, flowers and shrubs need about one inch of water each week (perhaps a bit more in late July and August). The most effective approach is to apply the whole amount in one day so the soil get saturated deeply (this encourages deep root growth). Soil applied irrigation (e.g. soaker hose or drip system) reduces disease incidence by keeping water off the foliage and also reduces irrigation loss. Where overhead irrigation is necessary, do it early in the morning to reduce loss from wind and evaporation.
