Desert Gardner:

Take time to check irrigation systems

Wednesday, June 17, 2009 | 2:38 p.m.

Angela O'Callaghan

When the temperature here in our beautiful Mojave gets so high that it is difficult even to think about going outside for extended periods, the thought of working outdoors can seem impossible. This is, however, the time when gardens are most in need of a little extra observation. There is rarely a lot of work that needs to be done, but staying on top of a few tasks in the summer will help ensure a garden that is healthy throughout the year.

Like many gardeners, I am very grateful for a functional irrigation system. Can you imagine having to stand with a hose, trying to apply enough water to keep vegetables, flowers, trees and shrubs alive? That would almost be a full time occupation! We can rely on bubblers, drippers and other emitters to take care of water needs. While that is certainly true, the system needs to be checked occasionally. By now, most residents of Southern Nevada are aware of changing the irrigation clocks. This has done wonders to lower our water use and misuse.

Of course, the water district's limit on watering days the maximum frequency. No one is saying that irrigation must take place daily, especially if the plants do not need that kind of watering.

People whose landscapes are primarily desert plants do not need, in fact should not be watering them daily. Think for a moment about life in the desert.

Dry conditions are the norm out in the wilderness. When we domesticate these plants and bring them into gardens, then they are no longer able to withstand the worst challenges of this climate. They are still better off when they are somewhat on the dry side.

This is one good reason to make sure that the irrigation system is properly functioning. If an emitter is blocked, say from mud or salt in the line, then there is no water getting to plants.

On the opposite end of problems, sometimes a drip emitter can pop off spaghetti tubing. Rather than one half gallon per hour being applied, it can be closer to several gallons.

When that happens, the chance of flooded roots is magnified. It is not difficult to check for this.

Early in the morning (when it is still delightfully cool) is the best time to irrigate and to do some troubleshooting. While the emitters are running, walk around and look. You should not see big volumes of water around any one plant, with the exception of using a bubbler system on trees. Rarely should they be watered more often than three times per week in that case. Mostly, drip and microsprays are the norm. If it appears that a large volume is being applied, look closer. There should be some kind of emitter at the end of the tubing, not simply a piece of tubing with water flowing from its end. Drip emitters are not difficult to replace, and they are inexpensive and available at home stores and nurseries.

There is information at the Cooperative Extension office that can be helpful to anyone trying to troubleshoot irrigation systems.

Angela O’Callaghan is the area specialist in social horticulture for the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension. She can be reached c/o the Home News, 2275 Corporate Circle, Third Floor, Henderson, NV 89074, or TheNews@hbcpub.com.