Summer is here with its heat and humidity, but no rain. Lawns and gardens are suffering; so, what should we do? Water? How often? Is that all? The lawn and garden should be considered separately.
Watering lawns depends on the type of grass and sun exposure. Bermuda grass, which grows best in full sun, will require frequent watering to maintain lush growth and good color. However, it is very drought tolerant and will recover quickly when neglected. St. Augustine grass tolerates more shade than Bermuda, requires consistent watering, and is more likely to decline if neglected.
In either case, raise your mowing height during the summer and don't bag the clippings. They will act as a mulch, keeping the ground cooler. Water deeply and only when needed. To reduce the possibility of fungal problems, water in the early morning.
In the garden, the type of plants you have chosen and their exposure to the sun will determine how often you should water. The best thing you can ; do is mulch, mulch, mulch. Apply a loose mulch (pine needles are excellent because they don't compact) two to three inches deep. The best investment you can make in a garden is to enhance the condition of your soil. By enriching your garden soil and mulching properly, you can reduce your time spent watering.
Paul Ferguson, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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