Many parts of Nebraska received good amounts of rain so far this year, greatly reducing drought conditions across the state. But conditions in July have quickly turned hot and dry, resulting in some lawns and landscape plants needing irrigation. Using good irrigation or watering techniques is a basic skill for keeping plants healthy and conserving water.
But many gardeners, especially those with inground irrigation systems, water too frequently and apply too little water at each irrigation. No matter what plant you're watering – lawns, perennials, shrubs, trees – watering deeply encourages a deeper and more extensive root system resulting in healthier plants. With that in mind, check out these landscape watering techniques for both homeowners with in-ground irrigation systems and those using sprinklers and hoses.
Deep and infrequent Water plants deeply but infrequently when irrigation is needed. Avoid frequent, light applications of water, such as 10 to 15 minutes two to three times per week. This often results in a shallow layer of continually wet soil, which prevents oxygen movement into the soil.
Plant roots need oxygen to survive, and without it they will eventually begin to die. This type of watering is particularly harmful to woody plants. What does "deep" mean? Try to keep soil moist about a half-inch deeper than the deepest roots.
Generally, this means moistening the soil about 6 inches deep for turf, 8 to 12 inches for ornamentals and vegetables, and 12 to 24 inc.