Field Notes
I will always prefer too dry, to too wet, as long as I have the ability to water. But there is no substitute for rain to ensure even germination, and overall better plant growth. Rain is also essential to germinate my cover crop and winter seeds in areas that I don't have irrigation run to, so I'm really hoping this forecasted rain will come to fruition this week.
I originally trenched and glued 700 ft. of irrigation down from the road to have city water to wash my vegetables, and to have a constantly 'charged' water source to use battery operated irrigation timers. I prefer those timers to an in-ground wired irrigation system, due to their simplicity and lack of wires to potentially cut.
The problem with city water for irrigation is that they treat it with antimicrobial agents to prevent people from getting sick from potential contaminants. While this is good for humans, I'm fighting against the beneficial bacteria that benefits the soil and therefore the plants every time I irrigate.
Ideally, when the budget allows, I'll install an electric pump and filter to irrigate with pond water where it makes sense and/or irrigate from a well. This ground/pond water will increase the naturally occurring beneficial bacteria and grow stronger, healthier crops which ultimately leads to better flavor and greater nutrient density.
In the meantime, having ANY automated irrigation system helps when we don't have much rain in the forecast for extended periods of time. One good thing about less rain is there's less weed growth and need for mowing, which saves more time for harvesting and flipping beds, and seeding/planting.
- I will always prefer too dry, to too wet, as long as I have the ability to water.
- I originally trenched and glued 700 ft. of irrigation down from the road to have city water to wash my vegetables, and to have a constantly 'charged' water source to use battery operated irrigation timers.
- I prefer those timers to an in-ground wired irrigation system, due to their simplicity and lack of wires to potentially cut.
- Ideally, when the budget allows, I'll install an electric pump and filter to irrigate with pond water where it makes sense and/or irrigate from a well.
- Having ANY automated irrigation system helps when we don't have much rain in the forecast for extended periods of time.
- Vegetables need about an inch of water a week in summer, from you or the rain. That is roughly six gallons per square yard, and it wets the roots 6 to 8 inches deep.
- Drip irrigation is the best way to conserve water. Sprinklers lose a lot to evaporation on hot, windy days.
- Water early in the morning. It lowers the chance of disease.
- Dry spells hurt most in the first few weeks after planting and while fruit or roots are forming.
- When hand watering, aim a gentle stream at the base of the plant, not the leaves.
- A shallow layer of mulch holds moisture in, and compost helps the soil hold more water.