1. The Do's and Don'ts
of Watering

2. Objectives Recall three major functions of water in plant growth.
Explain two effects of over and under watering your plants.
Be able to determine when plants should be watered.
Discuss the time and frequency of watering.

3. Functions of Water Provides two essential nutrients to plants.
Keeps plants turgid or inflated.
Medium for transporting nutrients and food throughout the plant.
Necessary for photosynthesis.
Maintains stable temperature in the plant.

4. Effects of Watering Plants
Over Watering
Shallow root systems
Root rot
Wilting
Nutrient deficiencies
Stunted growth
Under Watering
Decreased Growth
Decreased rate of photosynthesis
Smaller leaves
Shorter internodes
Stunted, hardened appearance

5. How to Determine When Plants Need Watered
Learn plant signal.
Watch for drought stress.
Discoloration of the plant.
Lack of turgidity in the plant or turf.
Wetness of the soil.

6. Methods of Watering
Sprinkler
Drip
Surface
Manual

7. Time and Frequency of Watering
Early morning hours
Not afternoon unless new seeds
Not late afternoon or early evening
Frequency
When needed
Determining factors include:
Need
Soil Characteristics
Environmental conditions