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July 6, 2023Jefferson City, Mo. |  By: Jeremy Werner

MU Horticultural Department offers watering tips during drought

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - As mid-summer approaches and temperatures rise, the University of Missouri Horticultural Department wants to remind you of good watering and gardening habits when facing drought.

Lawn lovers of all kinds should remember to water slowly and deeply at the base of any plant, taking care to water in the morning rather than the evening.

Cooler evening air lets water sit on leaves instead of evaporating, increasing a plant's exposure to mold or disease. But field specialist Debi Kelly doesn't want you to forget the other plants that fill our land outside of personal gardens.

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Weeding your gardens can help keep competition for water and nutrition low, as well as mulching to help retain moisture in plant beds.

Trees and Shrubs are hardy, but only after being established in an environment for an extended time. Consistent watering for three years after planting is recommended in most cases, but take care to know your plants well! No two are alike, and some may prefer a drier climate.