What is a recommended way to modify your irrigation schedule?

The recommended way to modify your irrigation schedule is by monitoring evapotranspiration and measuring soil moisture. This approach provides a science-based method to determine the actual water needs of plants rather than relying solely on fixed schedules or estimates.

Evapotranspiration refers to the combined processes of water evaporation from the soil and the transpiration from plants. By understanding how much water is lost through these processes, you can adjust irrigation to match the environmental conditions. Measuring soil moisture directly informs you about how much water is available to the plants, allowing for more precise watering that can prevent both over-watering and under-watering.

This strategy promotes water efficiency and encourages healthy plant growth by ensuring that plants receive the optimal amount of water based on current weather conditions and soil health, rather than a standard schedule or rainfall predictions alone. Using soil moisture readings can also lead to more sustainable practices by conserving water resources.