How Thirsty Are Your Plants?

As the temperatures rise and the scorching heat of summer settles in Alberta, it's crucial to adjust your watering routine to ensure the health and vitality of your plants. Adequate hydration is key, but it's equally important not to overwater, which can lead to root rot and other issues. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive watering guide to help you determine how often to water different types of plants in the current and building heat of Alberta.

Understanding Soil Moisture Levels

Before diving into specific watering recommendations, it's essential to understand how to assess soil moisture levels. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil near the plant's base. If the soil feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. If it's still moist, you can delay watering for a little longer. Regularly monitoring the soil moisture will help prevent both underwatering and overwatering.

Annuals and Perennials

Annuals and perennials generally have shallower root systems and can be more susceptible to drying out. Water them thoroughly, ensuring the water reaches the root zone. In the current heat, they may require watering every 2-3 days. However, as the heat builds up, you may need to increase the frequency to every day or every other day to prevent dehydration.

Shrubs and Trees

Shrubs and trees have deeper root systems that can access moisture from lower soil layers. However, they still require adequate hydration. Water shrubs deeply and slowly, allowing the water to penetrate the soil. In the current heat, watering every 4-7 days may be sufficient, but monitor the soil moisture levels closely. If the heat intensifies, increase watering frequency accordingly.

Vegetables and Herbs

Vegetables and herbs have varying water requirements based on their specific needs. Generally, they benefit from consistent moisture, but be cautious not to overwater. Water deeply, ensuring the water reaches the root zone. In the current heat, watering every 1-2 days may be necessary. Adjust the frequency based on plant responses and soil moisture levels.

Container Plants

Container plants tend to dry out faster due to limited soil volume and increased exposure to the sun. Check the soil moisture daily and water when it feels dry. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the container. In the current heat, container plants may require watering once or even twice a day, depending on their size and location.

Lawn Care

Lawns can struggle in extreme heat. To maintain a healthy lawn, water deeply and infrequently. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation. Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Pay attention to signs of drought stress, such as wilting or discoloration, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Watering your plants appropriately during Alberta's summer heat is vital for their survival and growth. By understanding the moisture needs of different plant types and closely monitoring soil moisture levels, you can ensure that your garden thrives despite the challenging conditions. Remember to adjust watering frequencies based on the current heat and the specific requirements of each plant. With proper watering practices, you can enjoy a vibrant and flourishing garden throughout the summer season.