Are you struggling to keep your ground cover healthy and thriving?
One of the most important factors in maintaining a lush ground cover is proper watering. While young plants require regular watering, mature ground covers can often thrive with only occasional irrigation or rainfall.
But how do you know when and how much to water?
In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for watering ground cover, including the tools and techniques you need to keep your plants healthy and beautiful.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, read on to learn how to water your ground cover like a pro.
How To Water Ground Cover
When it comes to watering ground cover, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you need to determine the best watering method for your specific plants. Ground covers that are spaced closer together than two feet should be watered with a sprinkler system or with low-pressure mini-sprinklers. Plants spaced farther apart and those on steep slopes are most efficiently watered with a drip irrigation system.
Young plants require special attention, and a steady watering program is important so that root systems develop fully. Watch the plants and make sure that water is getting to the roots. After the plants are growing, adjust the watering program to one of deeper and less frequent watering. This causes the roots to penetrate farther into the soil, which helps them become firmly entrenched in the ground. In a drought situation, this could make the difference in the survival of the ground cover.
To ensure that your ground cover is getting enough water, check the soil moisture regularly. Dig down to the root depth (6 to 12 inches) and withdraw a handful of soil. If it will not form a ball, it is most likely too dry. If it forms a ball that doesn’t crumble easily, it is probably too wet. Another way to test the soil is with a moisture meter (available at nurseries and some hardware stores). Choose one with a long probe for outdoor use.
For larger areas, consider using either drip irrigation or in-ground sprinklers. Drip irrigation systems use less overall water and deliver water directly to the plant roots, which encourages deep root growth, discourages weeds, and prevents water runoff and evaporation. Drip systems are especially good for hillside plantings. For higher, shrubbier plants or ground covers that consist of masses of individual plants, an in-ground system is the best choice. Use a timer to ensure that you don’t overwater, and set the sprinklers so they don’t overspray onto hardscaping.
Understanding Your Ground Cover’s Water Needs
When it comes to watering your ground cover, it’s important to understand the unique water needs of your specific plants. Most ground covers require little attention beyond routine watering, mulching, fertilizing, and grooming. However, the moisture needs of ground covers vary depending on the type and age of the plant, as well as soil texture and climate.
Generally, most ground covers require regular water when young but may do very well with only occasional irrigation or with rainfall alone once they are mature and established. Proper watering methods are seldom practiced by most gardeners. They either under or over water when irrigating. The person who under-waters usually doesn’t realize the time needed to adequately water an area; instead he applies light, daily sprinklings. It is actually harmful to lightly sprinkle plants every day. Frequent light applications wet the soil to a depth of less than 1 inch. Most plant roots go much deeper. Light sprinkling only settles the dust and does little to alleviate drought stress of plants growing in hot, dry soil.
Instead of light daily waterings, give plants a weekly soaking. When watering, allow the soil to become wet to a depth of 5 to 6 inches. This type of watering allows moisture to penetrate into the soil area where roots can readily absorb it. A soil watered deeply retains moisture for several days, while one wet only an inch or so is dry within a day.
In contrast, there are those who water so often and heavily that they drown plants. Symptoms of too much water are the same as for too little. Leaves turn brown at the tips and edges, then brown all over and drop from the plant. These symptoms should be the same since they result from insufficient water in the plant tissue.
Thoroughly moisten the soil at each watering, and then allow plants to extract most of the available water from the soil before watering again. By understanding your ground cover’s water needs and using proper watering methods, you can ensure the health and vitality of your plants.
Choosing The Right Watering Tools
When it comes to watering ground cover, choosing the right tools is crucial. There are several different options available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
For smaller areas, a handheld hose or watering can may be sufficient. However, for larger gardens or areas with many plants, a sprinkler or irrigation system is a more efficient choice. Sprinklers can cover a large area, but they can also waste a lot of water through evaporation. When choosing a sprinkler, look for one that sends large drops of water close to the ground to minimize water loss.
Drip irrigation is another option for watering ground cover. This system delivers water directly to the plant roots, which encourages deep root growth and prevents water runoff and evaporation. Drip systems are especially useful for hillside plantings and areas with plants spaced farther apart.
When selecting an irrigation system, consider factors such as the size of your garden, the spacing of your plants, and the type of ground cover you have. It’s also important to choose a system that is easy to maintain and adjust as needed. A timer can be helpful for ensuring that you don’t overwater your plants.
Ultimately, the best watering tools for your ground cover will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your options carefully and choose the tools that will help you keep your plants healthy and thriving.
Techniques For Watering Ground Cover
When it comes to watering ground cover, there are a few techniques that can help ensure your plants are getting the right amount of water.
1. Watering Method: First, determine the best watering method for your specific plants. Ground covers that are spaced closer together than two feet should be watered with a sprinkler system or with low-pressure mini-sprinklers. Plants spaced farther apart and those on steep slopes are most efficiently watered with a drip irrigation system.
2. Young Plant Care: Young plants require special attention, and a steady watering program is important so that root systems develop fully. Watch the plants and make sure that water is getting to the roots.
3. Adjust Watering Program: After the plants are growing, adjust the watering program to one of deeper and less frequent watering. This causes the roots to penetrate farther into the soil, which helps them become firmly entrenched in the ground. In a drought situation, this could make the difference in the survival of the ground cover.
4. Check Soil Moisture: To ensure that your ground cover is getting enough water, check the soil moisture regularly. Dig down to the root depth (6 to 12 inches) and withdraw a handful of soil. If it will not form a ball, it is most likely too dry. If it forms a ball that doesn’t crumble easily, it is probably too wet. Another way to test the soil is with a moisture meter (available at nurseries and some hardware stores). Choose one with a long probe for outdoor use.
5. Drip Irrigation or In-Ground Sprinklers: For larger areas, consider using either drip irrigation or in-ground sprinklers. Drip irrigation systems use less overall water and deliver water directly to the plant roots, which encourages deep root growth, discourages weeds, and prevents water runoff and evaporation. Drip systems are especially good for hillside plantings. For higher, shrubbier plants or ground covers that consist of masses of individual plants, an in-ground system is the best choice. Use a timer to ensure that you don’t overwater, and set the sprinklers so they don’t overspray onto hardscaping.
By following these techniques, you can ensure that your ground cover is getting the right amount of water to thrive and stay healthy.
Tips For Conserving Water While Watering
Conserving water while watering your ground cover is essential for both the environment and your wallet. Here are some tips to help you save water:
1. Water in the early morning: Watering your ground cover in the early morning will reduce water loss due to evaporation. It will also provide your plants with the needed moisture before the sun is at its peak, reducing the risk of dehydration.
2. Use a watering can or hose: Using a watering can or hose allows you to water around the plant bases beneath the leaves, leaving surrounding soil dry. This limits weed growth and ensures that all the water goes where it is needed.
3. Group plants with similar watering needs: Grouping plants with similar watering needs together will avoid overwatering some while underwatering others. This will also help you save water by ensuring that each plant receives the appropriate amount of water.
4. Use mulch: Adding a layer of organic mulch on the surface of your planting beds will minimize weed growth that competes for water. Organic mulch helps reduce evaporation and saves hundreds of gallons of water a year.
5. Consider using a drip irrigation system: A drip irrigation system delivers water directly to the plant roots, which encourages deep root growth, discourages weeds, and prevents water runoff and evaporation. Drip systems use less overall water and are especially good for hillside plantings.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your ground cover receives the appropriate amount of water while conserving this precious resource.
Signs Of Overwatering And Underwatering
When it comes to watering ground cover, it’s important to avoid both overwatering and underwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause wilting and stunted growth. It’s important to be able to identify the signs of each condition so that you can adjust your watering routine accordingly.
Signs of overwatering include soft, limp leaves that develop yellow and/or brown tips and edges, brown spots on the leaves, stems that feel mushy (especially at the base of the plant), no new growth, roots that are mushy, black, brown, or grey, wet soil that may have a rotting, offensive smell, fungus or mold growing on the soil, and the presence of fungus gnats. Overwatering can also cause blisters or growths on the undersides of leaves, pests like fruit flies or fungus gnats, and slow or stunted growth.
On the other hand, signs of underwatering include wilting (which can also be a sign of overwatering), browning edges on leaves (which can also go both ways), yellowing leaves (usually accompanied by new growth falling), foul odor from the soil (indicating roots are rotting beneath), mildew, mold, or fungal growth on the plant or soil (indicating overwatering), slow or stunted growth, brittle or crisp stems, soil pulling away from the sides of the planter, dropping leaves (which can also be a sign of overwatering), and pests like spider mites (which prefer dry conditions).
To determine whether your ground cover is being overwatered or underwatered, check the soil moisture regularly. Dig down to the root depth (6 to 12 inches) and withdraw a handful of soil. If it will not form a ball, it is most likely too dry. If it forms a ball that doesn’t crumble easily, it is probably too wet. Another way to test the soil is with a moisture meter (available at nurseries and some hardware stores). Choose one with a long probe for outdoor use. Adjust your watering routine accordingly to ensure your ground cover is getting the right amount of water for optimal growth and health.
Troubleshooting Common Watering Issues
Despite your best efforts, watering ground cover can sometimes present challenges. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them:
Low water pressure: If your sprinkler heads are barely spraying water or not popping up at all, there may be a problem with your irrigation system. Check for clogged pipes, broken valves, or faulty pumps. You should also make sure that your sprinkler heads are not blocked by dirt or debris. If you suspect there may be a water supply problem, consult a professional for advice.
Controller errors: Issues with your controller can be frustrating, but they can usually be resolved with some basic troubleshooting. Make sure the device is on and that the battery isn’t dead or in need of recharging. Check the device for damage and make sure your pre-set controls haven’t been changed. If the controller passes these steps and you’re still having issues, it’s best to contact a professional for further assistance.
Malfunctioning backflow device: Low pressure could also be due to a malfunctioning backflow device. This is a device that prevents contaminated water from flowing back into your home’s water supply. If you suspect this may be the issue, contact a professional to have it inspected and repaired.
Broken or faulty sprinkler heads: If you notice broken or faulty sprinkler heads, they may need to be replaced. This is especially true if they are not spraying water evenly or at all.
Irrigation leaks: Leaks in your irrigation system can be caused by loosened valves, torn diaphragms, cracked valves, improperly installed valves, and/or worn down or dirty valves and sprinkler heads. Keeping up with landscape debris removal can help prevent dirt-related irrigation issues.
In conclusion, troubleshooting common watering issues requires some basic knowledge of your irrigation system and an understanding of the most likely causes of problems. If you’re not an irrigation expert, it’s best to partner with professionals who can help you quickly identify and fix any issues before they cause damage to your ground cover or your property.
