Irrigation is an Art
Guest Speaker: Alex Thibodeaux, Irrigation Specialist
#1: Key Takeaways
Irrigation is an Art, Not a Science
Critter-Proofing
No plant is totally critter proof
Narcissus- plant these bulbs around new plantings because they are toxic to critters/ will help save new plantings.
Check Drainage
Water in a plant well before planting to check for drainage/ see where the water goes
Equipment
Raindrop tool for irrigation systems- available at Ace Hardware
Fire-proofing
Manzanita are very oily/ flammable
#2: Watering Schedule
Best Practices
Best to water early in the morning, if once a day. If watering x2 per day, aim for 4-6 pm for second watering
Watering at night can lead to fungus growth (kills plants) due to lack of evaporation at night.
Important not to overwater plants because plants need to breathe/ get 02 from soil
Native Plants
Require 1-2 waterings per week/ 2 hours per week
Intermittent watering causes roots to grow deeper
Discouraged 360 degree spray for drip systems- can cause over or under watering
Use a separate drip line for wildflowers
New or Non-native plants
Initially water every day for 1-2 weeks
After the initial watering schedule, change to X3 waterings per week.
#3: Irrigation Set-up
Equipment
Alex’s favorite drip items - direct emitters: red 2 gallon, black 1 gallon and blue ½ gallon
Discouraged 360 degree spray for drip systems- can cause over or under watering
Set up
Use a separate drip line for wildflowers
Direct lines to plants are best
Keep irrigation lines away from sun
Alex Thibodeax is happy to offer advice/consult (no charge)