AccuWeather.com

Weather Wisdom: Be Smart When Watering

Jul 15, 2010; 2:12 PM ET

In this article, AccuWeather.com offers some tips on how to be smart when watering your lawn and garden when dry weather hangs around. Drought-stressed fruits and vegetables will drastically reduce crop yields.

While some people don't mind a brown lawn so much, as it means less mowing, if you are opting for the green lawn or want a bountiful harvest of fruits and vegetables from your backyard, we have some advice for you.

The Right Amount

Ideally, you should water enough to get moisture down to the roots for a several day period, without having the water run off, where it is wasted.

Equally as important, just a light spritz only encourages shallow root systems. Shallow roots are more prone to drought problems.

While fruits and veggies need water at regular intervals, lawns will simply go dormant during long periods of rain-free weather. Different types of grass will stay greener longer during dry periods. Only in extreme drought will the root systems of lawns die.

The Right Time

If you must water, do so when evaporation rates are at their lowest. Any time during the period from a little before sunset to a little after sunrise is okay.

The most desirable time for watering is within a couple of hours of dawn as the air and ground temperature are usually at their lowest point, allowing sufficient time for the water to get to the roots.

Persistent watering during the late afternoon and evening, while allowing for the maximum time for water to get to the roots, could trigger a mold, mildew and other diseases, which could also kill your plants.

Other Important Tips

Avoid cutting your grass too low. A height of 2 to 3 inches is ideal, as the grass height is generally equal to the depth of the roots.

Water under wooded areas, too. With time, during dry periods, the ground under a canopy of trees will get just as dry as areas in the sun. The tree roots will draw upon that moisture in the shade.

If your grass is only growing in a few patches, just lightly cut those areas, rather than running the mower over the whole lawn. This will also save you fuel costs and time.

If you are watering shrubs, flowers or veggies, water the roots and not the foliage. This will translate to less water wasted in evaporation. Make sure you are aware of any watering restrictions in your area!

Alex Sosnowski for AccuWeather.com