An essential part of growing an organic vegetable garden is knowing when and how much to water. Too much water can lead to disease and root rot. Too little of water may cause the plants to die from dehydration. Proper watering of your plants promotes healthy growth and better yields.
When you do water, water your plants deeply. Allow the water to penetrate deep into the soil. This will allow the plants to develop deep, healthy root systems that will give them a better chance at survival during drought conditions. One of the best ways to ensure deep penetration is to form a mound of dirt in a circular fashion above ground and around the plant. Watering your entire garden uniformly will promote even growth and prevent the unnecessary use of water.
When you are growing plants that are going to survive more than one growing season, you will need to water them more than usual during the first growing season. This ensures a deep root system. In subsequent years, these plants can get most the water they need from rainfall or from deep within the earth.
Mulch is important to use in your garden. The mulch retains moisture and prevents you garden from drying out. If occasionally watered, soil near the bottom layers of mulch will retain water. Grass clippings, straw, and pine bark are all great to use if you make your own mulch.
If you have an irrigation system, be sure you have a timer on it. This will let you water when you want to and for specific periods of time. Group plants that need similar amounts of water together will make your watering more efficient. Soaker hoses are ideal to use for deep watering and less waste.
It is best to water your plants in the early morning hours. This allows the moisture to get deep into the soil before the temperature increases and leads to excessive evaporation. Watering in the evening hours leaves too much moisture in the ground for too long and can lead to a number of different types of plant disease.
Be selective about the types of plants you choose to plant. If you live in a drought prone area, be sure you choose plants that require less water. You can also help your soil to maintain moisture by adding amendments to your soil. You can add peat moss, leaves, and manure to increase the richness of the soil.
Keep you organic vegetable garden and other garden areas properly weeded. Weeds will compete with your plants for the moisture in the ground. This will also reduce the amount of water that you are using. By regularly eliminating the weeds, the plants you want no longer have to battle the weeds.
Wind plays a factor in how much water you will need to use. Wind increases the evaporation rate. If you are gardening in a windy area, you may want to grow some tall shrubs or trees on the edge of your garden to provide a wind barrier.
Remember, your organic vegetable garden relies upon you for survival. Give your plants the moisture they need, but do it wisely.
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