Garden Watering Tips During Times of Extreme Heat

We're not the only ones suffering from the oppressive heat, so are our gardens. 

I thought I'd share a few watering tips with you to use this summer. 

Besides the Bolingbrook watering restrictions—using your sprinkler on odd or even days (depending on your address)—there are a few other guidelines to follow to help conserve water and provide the best watering opportunity for your plants.

* Water your garden before 10 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. to avoid the hottest part of the day.

* If you can avoid a sprinkler, hand- or hose-watering your plants will help keep your water bill under control and prevent wasting water.  A soaker hose can provide an even deeper watering for your garden and is very useful for herbs and vegetables.

* Avoid watering the leaves of your plants; water the soil at the base of the plant.  Water on the leaves can be heated by the sun and cause scorch or burn and fungal diseases thrive when the temperature is between 70 and 90 degrees. By watering the soil, you can protect your plants from this disease and damage.

* Keep water from puddling at the stem for too long. If the stem of your plant stays in water too long, it can be susceptible to fungus or disease.

* Deep water your plants every week or two. Newer plants will require watering more often until they get established.

* Adding mulch will help keep the soil and roots cool and conserve water, as well as foil weeds.  Water before you mulch, and add 2- to 6-inches of mulch.  If you are using grass clippings as mulch, let the grass clippings dry before spreading them around your plant.

Using these tips can help preserve your plants and conserve water at the same time. 

Happy gardening!