IMP - watering our vegies

[ellen]

Hi,
Yesterday, I didn't stress enough that the first few days to one week
after planting is crucial to whether the plant will survive.
At this time sufficient water is crucial. Once established, we have a
little more leeway. But if we have sunny, hot rain-less days, our
little plants will need watering every day (best time - early morning
or early evening).
They may survive, without it, but they won't thrive.

Sorry I am not there to help with this, I know everyone is busy, but
want to bring it to your attention. I know Evelyn, Lilly , and perhaps
Edwin, are going to help with this, but not sure I made this clear.

thanks,
ellen

[ellen]

oh, duh, what I meant to add is-
we can make irrigation drip bottles which will help, altho they will
still have to be filled daily ideally.
Easy and free.

The materials you will need are as follows:
2 litre plastic soda bottle or water bottle that still has the lid
Drill and small drill bit
Sharp knife
Cutting surface
Drill 4-8 small holes into the cap of the plastic bottle. If you want
it to drip slower use less holes, faster use more holes. Don’t make
holes that are too small, they will become clogged up by debris.
Remove the bottom of the bottle by cutting across with a sharp knife.
I find a serrated knife works well. Removing the bottom of the bottle
creates a funnel for you to easily pour water into. The wide mouthed
opening will also catch some water when it rains.
Dig a hole next to a plant or in between a grouping of plants that is
deep enough to bury at least one third to one half of the bottle. If
you position the bottle in amongst a grouping of plants it will be
hidden from view. Place the bottle in the hole with the cap side down
and secure it into the hole by pressing dirt around it. This will
ensure that your bottle stays in place. Pour water into the bottle
until it is full. You can add fertilizer to the bottle every few weeks
so that your plants are fertilized right at the roots.
You will need to fill your bottle when it is empty, once a day or less
depending on how much direct, hot sun your plants receive. Make
several bottles to place in all your large containers or next to
plants in your garden such as tomatoes that require a lot of water.