Summer watering practices in the landscape by David Barkley (July 2005)

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One of the first signs of drought stress in ornamentals and turf is wilting. This is the case for plants in non irrigated areas. Many of our favorite plants show drought related symptoms differently. The leaves of some plants may exhibit marginal leaf burn of leaf scorching while others will simply wilt. An extended period without moisture can become a permanent, non reversible situation.

There are several plants that are typically grown in many landscapes that we can use as indicator plants. These plants wilt readily and are usually the first ones to show drought stress. They are azaleas, dogwoods, hydrangeas, most annuals and turf.

When these plants begin to look thirsty, you should have a plan to get water to the roots. A hand held hose is probably the fastest plan of action but may not be the best method.

If you are growing summer color plants in containers, it will be to your advantage to keep a water saucer under the pot. Pots will not dry out so quickly. It will also help to add peat moss and soil to the pine bark media to hold moisture. Be sure to mix the amendments together thoroughly before planting. Watering frequency will be greatly reduced.


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