During times of drought, it’s important to use water wisely and prioritize where it will have the most long-term benefit. Here’s how to care for key areas of your landscape when water is limited:
• Trees First - Trees are a long-term investment in your landscape. If you can only water one thing, water your trees. Even mature trees can suffer damage from prolonged drought. Deep, infrequent watering at the dripline (where rain naturally falls from the canopy) is best. One good soaking every 10–14 days can help keep trees alive during stress.
• Vegetable and Flower Gardens - Vegetables and annual flowers have shallow roots and often need more frequent watering. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and avoid wetting foliage, which can lead to disease. Focus on watering the base of the plants and consider using mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Cool-Season Grasses (like fescue and bluegrass) - Cool-season lawns naturally struggle in heat and drought. It’s okay to let them go dormant, they may turn brown but will usually recover in fall. If you want to keep them alive without full irrigation, water about 1/2 inch every 1–2 weeks to keep the crowns from dying.
• Warm-Season Grasses (like buffalo and bermudagrass) - Warm-season grasses are more drought-tolerant and go dormant more gracefully. They need less supplemental water, but a deep watering once every 10–14 days during extreme dryness can help prevent long-term damage.
Tip: Use mulch, mow high, and check soil moisture before watering. Avoid watering during the heat of the day to reduce waste from evaporation.
For personalized advice, contact your local Cottonwood Extension District office.
Smart Watering During Drought: Prioritizing Your Landscape