From the Grounds

Turf Talk...   Water-wise gardening is not a new concept.   But here are a few tips to help your lawn and garden become water wise.   Rain barrels can be installed below and above ground to help save hundreds of gallons of water.   Trees and shrubs that have been in the ground for more than two years only need watering during extended dry periods.  Water early in the morning so that less water is lost during the heat of the day.  Deep watering encourages roots to go deeper into the soil where water is retained longer.  Mulch helps soil retain water.   Using a 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch will help moderates temperatures in root zone of plants, which means less stress.   Do not pack mulch up around the stems of plants as this can cause stem rot and kill off the plants.   Planting during cooler months will help plants establish more easily and with lower water requirements.  Watering by hand will help reduce runoff, puts water at the root ball where the plant needs it.  This also allows closer monitoring of plants, to determine their watering needs.  Plants like Lantana, Autumn Sage, Black-eyed Susan and butterfly bushes are hardy, flowering plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.  Nandina offers year-round color.  Crepe Myrtles are beautiful trees that are very drought tolerant. Ornamental grasses and Yucca can be a great substitute when standard plants become harder to maintain.    If you have any questions, I will be very happy to help!   H. Dean Baker, CGCS KCC Golf Course Superintendent