Now that we have had our second bout with 100 F I think it is time to make some additional comments about water wise irrigation. If you have been following theis blog you will remember that it is a subject I have talked about before.

Yes, you have to increase the water you use. The problem is, if you increase the water for the lawn and that also increases the water you use for established shrub \, you can use a lot of extra water. If you have a few shrubs like a hydrangea that dries out and you increase the water for the entire garden you use a lot of extra water. Using a drip system to suppliment the main watering system is often the best way to adapt to extra hot weather.

Other tips include mulching with humus or mini bark 2" deep, thinning the foliage on well established shrubs to reduce the leaf surface, and avoid heavy fertilizing on well established shrubs and trees in the hot weather that increases soft succulent growth. Remember that the plants are key and pay attention to what they tell you.

If you have plants that wilt and you are SURE they have enough water don't water the whole garden. Often a misting or suringe with water will cool the plant off and allow the roots to catch up. Getting water on the foliage does NOT cause burn. If you visit us on hot days you will see us with overhead sprinklers going to cool the plants off.

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