Page 64 - 7166 - Rain Garden Handbook

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58 Maintain

WATERING FREQUENCY (DURING THE DRY SEASON)

Water Wisely Year 1:
• During planting and the first week after installation: water plants
as soon as they are planted and every day or every other day.
• Check soil before watering with a shovel or trowel (soil should be • From the second week after installation and until fall rains begin:
dry 1 to 2 inches below surface before watering).
water 2 or 3 times per week (watch for signs of water stress and
• Check the plants to see if they are wilting and in need of water. adjust watering if necessary).
• Water deeply, but infrequently, so that the top 6 to 12 inches of the
root zone is moist. Year 2:
• Don’t over water because this can rot plant roots, and soggy soil • Water deeply about every 1 to 3 weeks depending on your plants
reduces oxygen needed for healthy soil and plants. and site conditions.
• Water in the morning to reduce evaporation during warm mid-day
temperatures. Year 3 and Beyond:
• Minimal or no water should be needed, except during prolonged
periods of drought.

Watering Techniques

• SOAKER HOSES:
• Save water and can be covered with mulch to save even more.
• Have a maximum length for effective soaking of 100 feet.
• Work best if level, so contour the hose on the side slopes and
connect the level soakers with solid hose.
• Should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart.
• SPRINKLERS
• WANDS
David Hymel See above for frequency and amount of water. matsugov.us