The summer months bring on a wide variety of different weather conditions. Stretches of drought, varying temperatures, wind, low humidity and more. When to water and how much can become difficult to judge, especially with water restrictions in place for many areas. Below is a helpful table for summer watering, to help you through the hot months of summer.
MEASURING
In order to ensure your plants are getting the accurate amount of water they need, you must measure how much water you use. You can use a simple straight sided container and find out how long it takes to collect 1/2 inch of water, then use this time to judge how long you will need to water based on the table below.
WHEN TO WATER
Morning is the best time to water, this ensures a dry surface for the evening hours. Night time hours are when diseases thrive and spread the most.
[one_fourth]TEMPERATURE
70-75
75-80
80-85
85-90
Over 90
[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth]NORMAL CONDITIONS
1″
1-1 1/4″
1 1/2″
1 1/2″ – 2″
2 – 2 1/4″
[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth]WINDY / LOW HUMIDITY
1 1/4″
1 1/2″
1 1/2 – 2″
2 – 2 1/4″
2 – 3″
[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth_last]TIMES PER WEEK
1-2
2-3
3-4
3-5
4-6
[/one_fourth_last]
While the above summer watering tips are a good starting point other factors must be taken into consideration as well. Shaded areas, very sunny areas, and areas that receive reflected heat off patios and driveways will make a difference in how often they should be watered as well.