Water is the universal growth regulator. With it organisms can grow. Where the overall health of plants is concerned, managing water in the garden is as important as managing the soil, pests, and any other aspect of plant growth. Few things will cause the death of indoor plants more rapidly than mismanagement of water.

Observe the different types of drainage used in the Holistic Garden and greenhouse and learn to determine soil moisture content and the problems associated with proper and improper management of water.

• Observe the types of drainage used in the Holistic Garden.
• Check internal drainage of soils in the Holistic Garden.
• Observe the different types of irrigation in the Holistic Garden.
• Calculate the rate of application and the length of time needed to add an inch of water to the soil with the drip irrigation system.
• Check soil moisture and salts in the media of two plants in containers.
• Use the feel test and the moisture meter to determine soil moisture for the plants in containers.
• Test salts for the plants in containers with the salt meter in the lab.