Extension

It hasn’t been the hottest summer on record but landscapes around the state have been feeling the heat. All plants in the landscape, including trees, grass, flowering plants and shrubs must have some type of relief from the hot, dry periods we experience in the late summer.

 

The first step homeowners and gardeners should take is evaluate the priorities of the landscape. If irrigation is limited, it may be time to sacrifice some areas for the good of others. Established trees and shrubs should take top priority as they are difficult to replace and take years to grow. Plus, replacement is expensive. Perennials and seasonal plants should be the second priority. Third on the list would be established bermudagrass lawns. Bermudagrass tolerates drought and will recover once irrigation is resumed.

 

Identify the root zone of important plants and don’t water areas that are of no benefit. Trees and shrubs typically have roots that extend at least to the drip line and often go beyond that.

 

To help reduce the loss of moisture through wind or evaporation, apply water directly to the ground at root areas. Keeping the foliage dry will also help reduce foliar diseases. Drip systems, soft-spray heads or a water wand are generally more efficient than pop-up sprays. Check the local home improvement stores for drip irrigation kits. Most are quite easy to install.

 

To encourage deep root growth, deeply water the landscape just once or twice a week, depending on soil type. Also, avoid run-off to help reduce water waste.

 

As for the grass, mow it a little higher. The taller grass will shade the roots. Also, don’t fertilize during droughts.

 

One of the best ways to retain moisture in landscape beds and trees is to use mulch. About 1 to 3 inches of organic mulch keeps the soil cooler and reduces evaporation. As an added bonus, mulch also helps cut down on weeds. Be sure to keep the mulch away from the base of plants to avoid rot.

 

Native and well-adapted exotic plants also conserve water in the landscape. Native plants withstand Oklahoma’s droughts and crazy weather. Do some research to find out what plants do best in your area of the state. Natives from eastern Oklahoma probably won’t do well in western Oklahoma.