| Now that my plants have grown to about 4 feet and begun to flower I am finding that when I water the plants begin to lean over from the weight of the water. If I buy soaker hoses how will I know if I have enough, or how much space the cover? should I use something else, like maybe a hose with small holes in it? any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks |
| I think the easiest solution is to water the soil and not the foliage of the plants when you water. Keeping water off the foliage will help your plants remain upright and will keep them from developing fungal diseases which are common when plant foliage remains wet for several hours. Instead of investing in soaker hoses, simply put a small sprinkler on the end of your hose and turn the water on so the water only emerges a few inches above the sprinkler. There are several types on the market and most are only a few dollars. Leave the sprinker in place for about 10 minutes and then pull on the hose to move the sprinkler a few feet away and water again for about 10 minutes. This will give the bed a deep soaking while it keeps water off the foliage. Once you've thoroughly watered the entire bed, the perennials will be happy rather than leaning over from the weight of the water. |
