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.

• Compile a complete list of watering requirements for your neighbor. (activity)

• Research the issues of water conservation and local water ordinances in our area.

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.

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

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.

• Plastic stick method.

• Wetness of the soil.

Methods of Watering

Sprinkler

Drip

Surface

Manual

Time and Frequency of Watering

Time

• Early morning hours

• Not afternoon

• Not late afternoon or early evening

Frequency

• When needed

• Determining factors include:– Need– Soil Characteristics– Environmental conditions