Plants watered too frequently seldom develop a deep enough root system to stand up to drought and lengthy hot temperatures. Conversely, plants not watered enough also fail to develop strong root systems and they, too, can become stressed too easily, opening the door for pests and diseases.Last week I wrote about how critically important healthy soil was to creating a garden capable of standing up to Mother Nature's worst. This week, I'll concentrate on the tasks you should focus on above ground.
Watering should be used only to supplement what nature provides whenever it is needed. The combined total each week should equal about one inch. With this amount, plant roots grow deeper into the soil to find water. Plants with deeper roots can hold up to periods of drought better because soil moisture is more likely to be found there.
It is also important to water at the right time of day and to avoid wetting the foliage whenever possible. When foliage stays wet for more than several hours, diseases can become active. Watering early in the morning works well. Temperatures are cool, wind is calm and the plants can utilize water efficiently.
Soaker or drip irrigation hoses set on timers are an effective way to deliver water. These hoses are ideal because they emit water slowly, right at the soil level and away form the foliage. The water slowly soaks down to the roots and deep into the soil.
Mulch is another essential ingredient for several reasons. First, it helps retain moisture in the soil. It also keeps weeds at bay, soil temperatures more even and provides a protective barrier from diseases splashing up from the soil onto foliage and stems. There are few exceptions when mulch should not be used. It is vital to a healthy, productive garden.
With a healthy foundation laid, it is important to patrol the garden often. Routine checks are the best way to catch a potential problem early. Pests and diseases can spread rapidly. A proactive approach with early detection is the most important factor in preventing a larger problem. It is also the easiest way to treat and control.
Still, no matter how hard you try, pests and diseases can and will still find their way into the garden. In order to prevent some of the more common disease problems in the vegetable garden, I spray every seven to 10 days with a mixture of fungicide and bactericide. I combine the products in the same container and mix according to the label instructions.
For controlling bacterial risks, a copper-based product is a good choice. It is also works as a fungicide. However, there are many other products labeled for fungus control, including organic solutions. These products can be found at garden centers, on the Internet and in the catalogs of mail order providers.
If you work hard at the other areas discussed, insect pests rarely become a major problem. Maintaining healthy plants and frequent scouting are the most important measures to staying ahead and will keep most pests in check. Any pests that you do see should be removed right away. Hand removal is a simple and effective method.
No garden is safe from every challenge, but gardens can be crafted to withstand many obstacles. Such a garden, however, doesn't come about by accident. It takes proactive measures. But the efforts will reward you with a garden to weather any storm.
(Joe Lamp'l, a master gardener, hosts DIY's Fresh from the Garden as well as a gardening radio show. For more information, visit www.joegardener.com.)
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