By Debbie Post
Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteer
Plants will send you signals when they need a drink. Look for wilting, curling brown leaves, dry soil, or slowed growth. As indicators that plants need more water. Adjust watering frequency based on your soil type. Sandy soils drain faster and may need deep daily water, while clay soils retain moisture longer and can go 2 to 3 days between waterings. Any soil amendments needed are best applied at the beginning of your gardening season.
In these hot summer months, deep watering is crucial. One to two soaks per week are better than frequent shallow waterings. That encourages root growth, which dries out quicker, and makes plants more vulnerable to heat stress. Aim to soak the soil 6 to 8 inches, allowing roots to reach cooler, stable moisture layers. Containers and delicate seedlings may require daily watering. While established shrubs and trees need less frequent watering.
When hand watering flower beds, use a long wand that allows for precise control and reduces water waste. Watering the base of plants versus overhead sprinklers reduces evaporation and prevents leaf scorch. Drip lines or soaker hoses are best because they deliver water slowly and directly to the root zone, which conserves water and limits weed growth.
The best time to water is early in the morning, ideally from 4 to 8 a.m. When the temperatures are cooler, the winds are lighter, and water evaporation is minimal. This allows the water to penetrate the soil deeper and reach the roots. Before the heat of the day, while also letting leaves and foliage dry quicker to reduce disease risk.
To keep temperatures down, mulch around plants. This decreases the temperature by at least 10 degrees and will help retain soil moisture and protect plants from extreme heat. Protect plants from wind and direct sun with a shade cloth or use strategically placed companion planting. Plant corn next to cooler season plants like lettuce or spinach. Use vining plants to help cover more soil area as they insulate the ground by releasing moisture into the air.