Just a Thought – July 2013

By Russ Rubert, July 2013

Greetings!

With record temperatures and limited water supplies this year, keeping our lawns green, our gardens growing, and our crops progressing can be a real challenge. Here are a couple thoughts that might help. Watering at night is more efficient in that Evapotranspiration (water loss from the sun and plant use) is significantly reduced. Plant of all species “need a break”. Reducing heat and other stresses by watering more efficiently improves the look and quality of whatever we are growing. Secondly, Keeping our irrigation and or sprinkler equipment in good repair helps our efficiency not to mention saving money if we are on city or community water, and saving on the power bill if you are pulling out of a well or canal. Leaks of any kind in the system cause a surprisingly high loss of water and will raise power cost significantly. A dripping faucet or hose connection can fill a bucket in a relatively short period of time. Thirdly, Different plants and landscape materials have certain water, shade, sun, and temperature requirements. Checking with your local nursery or County Extension agent will help acclimate whatever you are growing to your particular arrangement. Last but not least Praying a lot for rain and specifically mentioning “please no hail” Really helps too!

“GOOD GROWING” And always spread you manure into the wind!