Greensward Lawn Spraying, Tree Care, & Pest Control
Sump Water: Do NOT use sump water for watering plants.
As water moves down through the soil profile it picks up soluble salts, and various other substances in your soil. These substances are best kept way down below the feeder roots of trees, shrubs, & turfgrass.
So what, what’s the harm?
Well, when you concentrate these substances in the same place, over time it will change the soil chemistry making an inhospitable environment for your plants. Such as, pH will probably increase which make certain nutrients unavailable to the plants. Thus creating nutrient deficiencies.
Secondly, salt concentration will build up in the soil root zone, making osmotic flow of water away from the plants. In other words, the plants will not get enough water flow throughout its circulation pattern. The plant will dry up despite it being well watered.
If the plant doesn’t die first of starvation, or desiccation the fact the area is kept wet more than necessary may cause fungal activity which may disease the plants.
TREES: Remember trees don’t like wet feet. A moist, well drained soil is preferred, and then tease the roots by letting them go awhile without water to encourage them to seek water on their own. No more than a drink of water once in three to four weeks and that’s if there is no adequate rainfall. Most trees don’t need irrigation unless they are stressed, or in drought conditions . Our heavy clay soils here in Red River Valley holds water for along time. More harm from over-watering is common than from under-watering. Exceptions are for newly planted plants where daily waterings to weekly waterings are encouraged. Shrubs can be moistened once in two weeks. This advice is in general terms for most trees in our area. If you have unique plants with specific requirements be sure to follow those guidelines. Trees growing in a lawn environment would need no extra waterings provided your lawn receives an inch of water per week. Prevent sprinklers from jetting the tree trunk or canopy. If tree is growing in an overly wet area we offer aeration of the root zone to improve soil air.
LAWNS: Rainfall + Irrigation = ¾" to 1" at each watering. Once to twice a week if needed. Water only when needed, and not on a schedule.