Nov 01, 2005 Weekly Water Saving Tip

The temperatures are cooling down. Before your next irrigation make sure that you really need to water. As a guideline, you shouldn’t need to water for at least 10 to 14 days. If you feel that a given plant is in true need of water, check the soil before just turning on the water. If you over water, you may expect to see soil borne fungus diseases which will kill your plants. You can use soil fungicides in the early stages of the diseases, but it is better to change the conditions that the fungus favors. Irrigate less often and the soil will not remain wet and cold all the time.

Once the soil has cooled from the winter temperatures it’s an excellent time to apply mulch. The mulch will protect the soil from freezing and at the same time reduce the loss of moisture. Make sure you use good loose mulch.

And as a last note, evaluate your landscape. Fall is a great time to remove those plants that are unhealthy, dead or damaged. Replace these plants with those that grow well in this area. These are the plants that will have the least amount of problems with insect and disease.

Our last workshop of the year will be held on Saturday, November 19, at 10 a.m. It is titled: I Do What? Where? How to Maintain Desert Plants. Everyone’s been planting water-wise plants, so now attend this class and learn how to take of them through all the seasons. This workshop is free, but space is limited, so call to reserve your spot at 673-3617.

If you would like any more information please call me, Julie Breckenridge, at 673-3617.