Circle C Landscape at Park West

Hot Weather Stresses our Landscapes

Aug 03, 2003

We have now officially entered the really hot, dry and windy time of year. Many days without rain, rain splitting around Austin, and a big high pressure system sitting to our west with no chance of movement any time soon.

All of our yards and trees are beginning to show heat stress. What can you do? Deep watering of vegetation and trees at this time of year is essential. If you get up in the morning and check your plants, and if they are wilted, they definitely need water. A long dose with the hose would be most beneficial. Likewise, the trees need a slow drip and thorough watering when they look stressed, especially the newer trees. Just put a slow drip hose on them for several hours. The idea is not to let the root ball dry out on a new tree. For most trees, try this about every three to four days.

For watering your lawn, there are several keys:

1. Water only after 7:00 p.m. and before 10:00 a.m. Preferred time is just before dawn.

2. If you are following the City of Austin five day watering schedule, multi-cycle your controller for at least two waterings on your day. Set start time one for about 2:00 a.m. and set each station for 7 minutes. Set start time 2 for 4:00 a.m. and water for 7 minutes,and then repeat with start time three at 5:30 or 6:00 a.m.
This technique will get you about the right amount of water and prevent run off. It is recommended by the city of Austin water wise program.