July: Drip Irrigation, Mulch and Prune.
Posted in Monthly Reminders by oscar on Wednesday, July 9, 2014
As the summer heat grows more intense and relentless, the two most important things that you can establish for the health and success of your yard is use drip irrigation and apply mulch to your planting beds.
One of the best techniques for applying water to home landscapes is drip irrigation. This is controlled, slow application of water to the soil via low-pressure water flow through plastic pipe or hose laid along each row of plants. The water drops out into the soil from tiny holes which are either formed in the hose wall or in fittings called emitters that are plugged in to the hose wall at proper pacing. Drip irrigation can be used for vegetables, ornamental and fruit trees, shrubs, vines, and container grown plants outdoors. It is not recommended for lawn watering.
Mulch is a layer of material covering the soil surface around plants. The benefits of mulching include moderating soil temperatures, thus promoting greater root development, conserving moisture by reducing evaporation of water vapor from the soil surface, preventing compaction by reducing soil crusting during natural rainfall o irrigation, reducing disease problems, keeping fruit clean while reducing rot disease by preventing soil-fruit contact, and reducing weed problems by 90 % or more. Research suggests that mulching does more to help newly planting trees and shrubs become established than any other factor except regular watering.
• Fertilize annuals, roses, and young fruit trees. Water well before and after application.
• Water planted areas deeply and infrequently. Water outdoor potted plants daily. Consider landscaping with drought tolerant native plants.
• Mow every 5 – 7 days, leaving the clippings on the lawn and raising the mower setting to reduce turf stress in summer heat. Raising the mower in shady areas will also help promote denser turf. Avoid weed killers now that temperatures are above 85 degrees.
• Mulch all bare soil.
• Prune dead and damaged wood from trees and shrubs as needed.
• Watch for any diseases or pests in your yard. Practice Integrated Pest Management skills. Remove any diseased leaves from plants or beds and dispose of them; do NOT add them to the compost pile.
• Start planning and preparing fall garden beds.
and the crew Tips
Source: Garden Guide for Austin and Vicinity – Travis County Master Gardeners Association.
TAGS: drip irrigation, mulch, prune, summer heat
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