Have you ever noticed how your garden seems to “wake up” after a good summer rain?
Central Virgina is starting summer 26’ in an extreme drought and almost every day we hear someone say some version of “I’m watering my garden but it just doesn’t seem to be making a difference…”
There’s a reason for that. Rainwater is nature’s perfect irrigation source and there is truly no substitute for a nice soaking rain when it comes to keeping plants healthy.
Unlike treated city or county water, rainwater starts its journey naturally clean and free of many of the minerals and additives that can build up over time. Rainwater is naturally soft, slightly acidic, has nutrients such as nitrogen, and helps deliver moisture in a way that plants have adapted to over thousands of years.
Well water can be a great option for watering your garden and is often preferred over treated municipal water, but it can still contain minerals and salts depending on your location and water source. Over time, those minerals can accumulate in the soil especially in containers, raised beds, and areas that receive frequent irrigation.
This year, many of us in Central Virginia are seeing firsthand how important every drop of water is. With drought conditions affecting Lynchburg and surrounding counties, proper watering has become more important than ever.
A few tips to help your garden through dry conditions:
💧 Water deeply, less frequently for gardens in the ground. Once a week, maybe twice, should be ample. A deep soaking encourages roots to grow deeper and makes plants more drought tolerant.
Pots and containers will still need frequent watering.
🌅 Water early in the morning. Less water is lost to evaporation, and plants have time to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.
🍂 Add mulch around plants. A 2–3 inch layer of mulch helps keep soil cooler and holds moisture longer.
🌧️ Consider collecting rainwater. Rain barrels are a simple way to save rainfall when storms do come and provide your plants with the water they love most.
Trying to decide how often to water? For a quick Watering 101 click here!
Your plants don’t just need water they need the right kind of water, applied the right way. While we can’t control when the rain comes, we can help our gardens make the most of every drop.
Stop by Gary’s Garden Center for drought-tolerant plants and advice on keeping your garden growing all summer long!
