Organic matter in the soil improves dramatically the capacity of the soil to hold and release water. Particles of organic matter act like microscopic sponges. They help soak up and hold water in sandy soil, and help open pore spaces in clay soils to permit easier passage of water.

Adding organic material to your soil can be as simple as top dressing or mulching your beds yearly or as complex as reconditioning areas by incorporating organic materials into your soil. Something like “Cedar Grove” brand, which is a composted material, works well. Topping that with bark or wood chips acts as a cap and will help hold in the moisture. Check with your local arborist. Usually woodchips are plenty and available at no charge.

Respond with caution: Plants also demand that they do not get too much water. Water logged soil lacks adequate oxygen, thus drowning the plant. This environment is a perfect set-up for contagious landscape destroying root rot. Too small a response or too large a response and plants suffer.

Watering amounts for optimal soils: For newly established trees and plantings-soak once a week to the depth of one foot. New plantings may require additional attention during drought conditions. The hairs of plant roots can be easily damaged and it takes time to develop new ones. Trees that have been in the ground between one and five years, water every two to three weeks during dry spells. Older trees need to be watered only every four weeks.

Irrigate in late afternoon or early morning. This is the time when the least amount of water will be lost to evaporation. One good soaking is better than several light waterings. Deep watering encourages deep roots. Water slowly and steadily. Use soaker hoses rather than an overhead sprinkler.