In the heat of the summer, watering your garden can eat up a lot of time! Learning how you should water your garden will save you time, but also wastes less water, saves money, and encourages your plants to be healthier.

Check out these seven tips to help make watering your garden easy and efficient:

Improve your soil.

One of the best ways to improve your garden’s ability to use and retain water effectively is to improve the soil quality. Sandy soil will cause water to run right through before your plants can use it, while a lot of clay in your soil will hold water, giving your plants “wet feet” and increasing the risk of root rot and plant disease. Adding organic material to your soil will improve its structure and enable it to drain and retain moisture at optimal levels. Also, using mulch around your plants will help retain moisture and cut down on weeds that can compete with your plants for water.

Give more water, less often.

It’s better to water deeply and infrequently. Give plants enough water that the soil is soaked beyond the service level and don’t water again until the soil is completely dry. Watering only at the surface will encourage your plants to develop shallow roots, rather than growing deep roots that draw moisture and nutrients from the soil more effectively.

Water the roots.

Your plants can only intake moisture through their roots. Be sure to aim water at the roots and don’t waste time and water by watering the leaves.

Water plants in early morning or late evening.

It’s best to water plants at times of the day when hot summer sun won’t dry up the water before your plants can absorb it. Early morning is ideal because plants will have the opportunity to use the water and the midday sun will dry up any excess moisture that could encourage fungal disease in your plants.

Don’t overwater.

There is no set timetable for optimal watering. The amount you water will depend on a series of factors including the types of plants and soil you have, the temperature, and the amount of rainfall you have in any given week. You should adjust your watering schedule accordingly! Don’t waste water by giving your plants more than they need.

Collect rainwater.

Collecting rainwater in a rain barrel or other receptacle is a relatively easy way to minimize the amount of water you use in watering plants. If you are concerned about a rain barrel attracting mosquitoes, an easy way to prevent this is to cover your barrel with a fine mesh screen.

Plant intentionally.

Planning your garden to optimize water usage can save you a lot of money and make your plants happier! Be sure to group plants with similar water needs together and put plants in the right spot in your yard to meet their needs for sun or shade and proper drainage. With a little planning, you can save water and help ensure that your plants grow strong and healthy.

If outdoor plumbing problems are preventing you from watering your garden as well as you could be, call your local plumber for help! Contact us at (800) 259-7705.