How to Water Sandy Soils
If you live in an area that has a native soil composed mostly of sand, you will need to change your watering habits.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Automated Sprinkler Timers
- Compost Makers
- Garden Hoses
- Lawn Sprinklers
- Mulch
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1
Water sandy soil more frequently than soil composed of loam or clay. Water drains quickly through sand, so it won't be available when the plants need it.
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2
Set your automatic sprinklers to come on more frequently and for a shorter period. For example, set the timer for Monday, Wednesday and Friday for 10 minutes. The water will drain quickly down to the roots, so longer watering times are wasteful.
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3
Amend the sandy soil with organic compost to increase its water-holding capacity. Top-dress lawns in the fall, and flower beds when you change the plants. Add organic compost to all new planting holes.
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4
Use mulch to keep the soil from drying quickly. A thick layer of mulch will shade the surface of the soil, preventing rapid moisture loss.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Use spray-type sprinklers instead of bubblers or hoses when watering. The spray will cover a larger surface area. Bubblers and hoses will deliver water only in the area directly below them.
