FredTalks by Environmental Enhancements
THE PROBLEM: Hey Fred, I can’t believe I’m experiencing anxiety over this, but I’m in a losing battle, trying to keep my grass and flower beds from drying up. I feel guilty for watering when we’ve had no rain, but I can’t stand to see all the stuff I’ve planted wilting. I’ve never obsessed so much on watering my yard before, but I find myself feeling almost agitated on the days I’m dragging the sprinkler all over the place, adding extra minutes. Anybody else feeling this way?
FRED SAYS: Worrying about rain never stops when we’re experiencing drier-than-normal weather conditions, particularly if you’re a farmer, a landscaper, or a gardener. Don’t berate yourself; I see you as a fellow nature enthusiast who wants to do right by the living things in your charge. Birds, bees, and butterflies need your flowers and trees to stay healthy. We all do. Maintaining a healthy yard during drought conditions isn’t just about watering, although that’s a key part. It’s okay to water daily (unless there are water restrictions in your community) for about 10-15 minutes per zone. Make an effort to water early in the morning before the sun gets too hot. You also may want to consider installing a sprinkler system, which is the most efficient way to balance watering needs.
But here are some other things you can do:
1. Raise your mower blades. Short grass burns more easily.
2. Make sure your mower blades are sharp. A clean cut puts less stress on your grass.
3. It’s best not to add an extra round of fertilizer during times of no rain. Right now, we don’t want to force your lawn to expend energy on growing rather than staying healthy.
4. If possible, keep kids from playing in particularly vulnerable spots. And don’t worry, Even if your grass turns brown, it will most likely come back. We’ve seen cycles like this before, and I’m sure we’ll see them again. Water always returns.
Please reach out if you’d like to hear about our sprinkler systems for homeowners. 703.421.7400 or [email protected]
Fred Peratt is president of Environmental Enhancements Inc., an award-winning landscaping company serving the DC metro area since 2001. Fred is well-known in the landscaping industry for his dedication to innovation, teamwork, and the highest standards of workmanship. www.eelandscaping.com 540.764.4433 Environmental Enhancements is a premier landscaping company that offers industry-leading service to commercial, HOA, and residential clients in the northern Virginia and DC area. Learn more about Environmental Enhancements or download our residential brochure! Did somebody send you this email and you want more? Subscribe here.