All living things need water to survive. Plants need different amounts of water depending on their location, size, environmental conditions, and species. Some plants, such as cacti, are adapted to desert conditions and need very little water. Other plants, such as water lilies, live fully submerged in water.

Research the water requirements of your garden plants. Keep track of rainfall received to help you determine when supplemental watering is needed. Too little water will cause plants to wilt, slow their growth, and may lead to early fruit drop. However, too much water can be just as damaging, suffocating roots and leading to root rot.

Tips

• Water plants in the morning. If you water in the heat of the day, much of the water is lost through evaporation. If you water in the evening, foliage stays wet which can it can contribute to disease problems.



• It is better to water gardens deeply once or twice a week, as opposed to watering lightly every day. This encourages plants to develop deep root systems that will be less susceptible to drought. Apply enough water to moisten the soil down to a depth of the plants' root zones, usually at least 6 inches or more. Apply water slowly so it is absorbed rather than running off.



• Apply a layer of mulch to landscaped beds and trees to decrease water loss.



• Use plants that are adapted to your climate. Native plants are often good choices because their water requirements will be a close match to the amount of rainfall your area receives.