Panhandle Plantings-A new column by Master Gardener Val Ford
In June, we can expect about 23 days of 90°F+ temperatures and a ‘normal’ monthly rainfall amount of about six inches. Under these often-elusive ‘normal’ conditions, we should have 11 days where we receive 1/10" of rain or better.
Irrigation is always a hot (sorry about the pun) summer subject. The University of Florida gives us three basic steps for efficient watering: (1) Determine when water is needed, (2) determine how much water should be applied and (3) decide how water is to be applied. There are a few simple rules that will make your life easier, whether you’re working with fruits and vegetables, lawn grass or ornamentals.
Water is needed when a soil sample from the rootzone feels dry. The first thing you need to know is the depth of the rootzone, whether you are dealing with shallow- or deep-rooted plants. Wilt is a good indication of water stress in lawngrasses. Many ornamentals wilt daily as a natural moisture conservation measure, but don't require irrigation to recover (e.g. impatiens and French Sorrel).
Light, frequent waterings are inefficient and encourage shallow root systems that result in plants that experience faster and harder stress during shorter periods of water shortage. Irrigate deeply and less frequently, allowing the rootzone to become moist but not waterlogged. A general guideline is ¾ to 1" per irrigation.
Water early in the morning. The benefits are threefold: (1) Foliage has the opportunity to dry off during daylight hours, reducing environmental problems that can cause disease; (2) irrigation has a better chance to soak into the soil profile – i.e. evaporation from strong sun is minimized; and (3) plants have full daylight hours to utilize (photosynthesize) soluble nutrients.
Drip/microject irrigation or soaker hoses provide the most efficient use of irrigation time and resources, while directing water away from foliage, thus discouraging disease. Overhead irrigation utilizes more water, loses water to rapid evaporation, and encourages disease problems. If people have a choice, especially on new construction, they may want to consider something other than the conventional water hose & sprinklers.
And how irresponsible would we be if we didn't mention mulching? First and foremost it’s your frontline defense for soil moisture conservation. Additionally, it controls weeds and soil temperature and provides needed organic matter and nutrients during the decaying process. Even if you don't master the watering routine, mulching will save the day – in addition to giving you something to do with all that pine straw and those oak leaves!
Words of wisdom: Heat, not snow, determines the Florida gardeners’ winter. June through August is for studying, planning, ordering and dreaming of September!
Val Ford is a Holmes County Master Gardener. She is a three-time recipient of the Florida MG Award for Written Mass Communications for the weekly DeFuniak Springs Herald "Gardeners’ Dirt" column. If you have gardening questions or problems, contact your local County Extension Office, or Val at Flsnowflake7592@aol.com.
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