Topography: This refers to land surfaceshills, slopes, north/south orientation, valleys, rivers, lakes, (natural or artificial features)or buildings. All of these affect air and water flow and can create microclimates in your own yard.
Drip irrigation can be used to water trees, plants in containers, raised beds, and many other landscape situations. The amount of water needed and frequency of application varies greatly depending on plant species, soil conditions, and the local environment.
Water requirements of landscape plants change throughout the year. Daylength, temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed all affect the loss of water from soil and plants. In the absence of rain, these losses must be replenished by irrigating.
Yearly drip system maintenance is especially important to make sure plants are receiving the water they require and that none is being wasted. Check the system early in spring before it is turned on for spring-summer irrigation. This would include opening the end caps and flushing the system.
Sonoma County Master Gardeners are here to help! Garden Sense is a free program for Sonoma County residents who want to learn how to create a beautiful and sustainable garden that conserves water. We make home visits and provide information on low-water-use plant selection and irrigation.
