Tag: June-Blog

  • Embracing Efficiency: The Profound Benefits of Smart, Efficient Irrigation for Growers

    Conservation often evokes images of sacrifice and compromises, but the narrative takes a refreshing turn when it comes to efficient irrigation. Implementing smart and efficient irrigation techniques can lead to multiple benefits, including enhanced productivity, positive environmental impacts, and overall profitability. There is no better time than smart irrigation month to dive deeper into the advantages and explore the transformative potential of efficient irrigation for growers.

    Increased Productivity: Modern irrigation technologies provide farmers with crucial insights into their crop’s water needs. By considering variables such as crop water requirements, soil type, and real-time weather conditions, growers can make informed decisions on when and how long to irrigate. This precision minimizes the stress of over- or under-watering, leading to improved crop quality and maximized yields. With efficient irrigation, farmers have their finger on the pulse of their crops, unlocking their full potential for growth and productivity.

    Positive Environmental Impacts: Efficient irrigation addresses the harmful consequences of overwatering, particularly nonpoint-source pollution. By irrigating only to reach the root zones of crops, excess water runoff into nearby streams and water bodies is significantly reduced. This mitigates crop nutrients and chemicals leaching into freshwater sources, safeguarding critical habitats and improving overall environmental quality. By implementing efficient irrigation practices, growers contribute to preserving and conserving valuable water resources, benefiting both ecosystems and communities.

    Benefits Across the Board: The advantages of efficient irrigation extend beyond water savings and increased yields. By optimizing water usage, growers can save on pumping energy costs and reduce wear and tear on irrigation systems, leading to long-term cost savings. Additionally, higher yields and improved crop quality resulting from efficient irrigation enhance growers’ profitability. Moreover, adopting sustainable practices in irrigation not only boosts financial success but also cultivates a positive public image for the farming operation. Consumers are increasingly mindful of sustainable practices, and by showcasing a commitment to efficient irrigation, growers can build a reputation as responsible stewards of the environment, enhancing brand value and market competitiveness.

    Shaping the Future of Agriculture: In the face of evolving challenges such as increased drought vulnerability and potential water scarcity, efficient irrigation plays a vital role in ensuring the sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems. Embracing modern irrigation technologies and practices disrupts the notion that profitability and environmental stewardship are incompatible. By proactively moving towards efficiency in food production, growers become better prepared for future uncertainties. As climate patterns change and water resources become scarcer in certain regions, adopting efficient irrigation techniques prepares growers to navigate potential water constraints and ensure the continued production of high-quality crops.

  • Carbon Credits: Paving the Way To a Greener Future

    Farmers have a unique opportunity to earn additional income and make a positive impact on the environment through the use of carbon credits. Carbon credits are a form of a tradeable permit allowing farmers to earn credits for reducing their carbon footprint. These credits can be sold to companies or individuals who want to offset their own carbon emissions.

    To sign up for agricultural carbon credits, farmers need to work with a reputable company that can help them navigate the process. There are several companies that specialize in carbon credit programs for agriculture, each with its own unique approach and requirements. Some companies offer online sign-up processes, while others require farmers to work directly with a representative to determine eligibility and enroll in the program.

    When selecting a company to work with, farmers should consider factors such as the company’s reputation, the types of agricultural practices that are eligible for carbon credits, and the potential income that can be earned through the program. By carefully researching and selecting the right company, farmers can take advantage of this opportunity to earn additional income while also contributing to a more sustainable future.

    Understanding Carbon Credits

    Concept of Carbon Credits

    Carbon credits are a market-based mechanism that is used to offset carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. They are a way for companies and individuals to invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere. One carbon credit is equal to one ton of CO2 that has been prevented from entering the atmosphere.

    Under a cap and trade system, companies are allocated a certain number of credits that limit how much CO2 they can emit. If a company emits less CO2 than its allocated credits, it can sell the excess credits to other companies that emit more CO2 than their allocated credits. This creates a financial incentive for companies to reduce their GHG emissions.

    Importance of Carbon Sequestration

    Carbon sequestration is the process by which carbon is removed from the atmosphere and stored in a long-term reservoir. This can be done through natural processes such as photosynthesis or human activities such as carbon farming. Carbon sequestration is important because it helps to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, which helps to mitigate the effects of climate change.

    Carbon farming methods such as drip irrigation, conservation tillage, cover cropping, and rotational grazing can help sequester soil carbon. Soil carbon capture effectively reduces GHG emissions because it is a natural process that does not require expensive technology.

    Carbon credits are an important tool for reducing GHG emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. Carbon sequestration through natural processes and human activities such as carbon farming effectively reduces GHG emissions.

    Role of Agriculture in Carbon Sequestration

    Agriculture can play a significant role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil. Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in carbon sinks, such as soil, plants, and trees. The agricultural sector can contribute to carbon sequestration by enhancing soil health, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and increasing carbon storage.

    Carbon Farming Practices

    Carbon farming practices are agricultural practices that promote carbon sequestration in the soil. These practices include reduced tillage, cover cropping, companion crops, nutrient management, agroforestry, and manure management. Reduced tillage involves minimizing soil disturbance during planting and cultivation, which helps to reduce soil erosion, improve soil health, and increase soil carbon capture. Cover cropping involves planting crops that cover the soil during the off-season to prevent soil erosion, increase soil organic matter, and improve soil structure. Companion crops are planted alongside main crops to promote biodiversity and enhance soil health.

    Nutrient management involves optimizing the use of fertilizers and other soil amendments to reduce GHG emissions and improve soil health. Agroforestry involves integrating trees into agricultural landscapes to improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and sequester carbon. Manure management involves managing animal waste to reduce GHG emissions and improve soil health.

    Carbon Markets and Pricing

    Voluntary vs. Compliance Markets

    Carbon markets can be divided into two main categories: voluntary and compliance markets. Voluntary markets are those in which companies and individuals voluntarily purchase carbon offsets to reduce their carbon footprint. These markets are not regulated by governments and are often driven by corporate social responsibility or sustainability goals. On the other hand, compliance markets are those that are regulated by governments, such as cap-and-trade systems. In these markets, companies are required to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to meet regulatory targets. Compliance markets are typically more expensive than voluntary markets due to the mandatory nature of the regulations.

    Factors Influencing Carbon Prices

    Carbon prices are influenced by a variety of factors, including market mechanisms, economic incentives, and government regulations. Market mechanisms such as supply and demand can also impact carbon prices. For example, if there is a high demand for carbon offsets but a limited supply, the price of carbon offsets will increase. Economic incentives, such as tax credits or subsidies, can also impact carbon prices. Governments can also impact carbon prices through regulations such as cap-and-trade systems, which place a limit on the amount of GHG emissions that companies can produce. The Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement are examples of international agreements that aim to reduce global GHG emissions.

    It is important to note that the breakeven price for carbon credits varies depending on the project and the market. The breakeven price is the minimum price required for the project to be financially sustainable. Factors that impact the breakeven price include project costs, reduced GHG emissions, and the price of carbon in the market. Investors and farmers should carefully consider these factors when deciding whether to participate in carbon markets.

    Overall, carbon markets offer farmers the opportunity to earn additional cash while also promoting sustainability and reducing GHG emissions. However, farmers should carefully consider the costs and benefits of participating in carbon markets and seek expert advice to ensure that they are making informed decisions.

    Signing Up for Carbon Credits

    Signing up for carbon credits involves several steps, including verification, registration, and monitoring. The process can be complex, and growshould take the time to understand the requirements and commitments involved.

    Verification Process

    The verification process is an essential step in signing up for carbon credits. It involves verifying that the carbon sequestration practices used on the farm are legitimate and meet the requirements of the carbon credit program. Verification is typically done by a third-party verification body that is accredited by the relevant carbon registry.

    The verification process usually involves a site visit by a verifier who will inspect the farm and assess the carbon sequestration practices used. The verifier will also review documentation related to the practices, such as soil sampling and testing results. Once the verification is complete, the verifier will issue a verification report that outlines the carbon sequestration practices used and the amount of carbon sequestered.

    Role of Verifiers and Registries

    Verifiers and carbon registries play a vital role in the carbon credit market. Verifiers ensure that the carbon sequestration practices used by farmers are legitimate and meet the requirements of the carbon credit program. Carbon registries, on the other hand, provide a platform for farmers to register their carbon credits and sell them to buyers.

    Farmers should choose a reputable verification body and carbon registry to ensure that their carbon credits are recognized and valued in the market. The verification body and carbon registry choice can also affect the administrative fees and transaction fees associated with selling carbon credits.

    Administrative Fees and Transaction Fees

    Farmers should know the administrative and transaction fees associated with signing up for carbon credits. Administrative fees are typically charged by the verification body and carbon registry for their services. Transaction fees are charged when carbon credits are sold to buyers.

    Farmers should also be aware of the ownership stake and leasing agreements involved in signing up for carbon credits. Some carbon credit programs require farmers to give up ownership of their carbon credits, while others allow farmers to retain ownership and lease the credits to buyers.

    In conclusion, signing up for carbon credits involves several steps and commitments. Farmers should take the time to understand the requirements and choose a reputable verification body and carbon registry. They should also be aware of the administrative fees, transaction fees, ownership stake, and leasing agreements involved.

    Challenges and Uncertainties

    Modeling Uncertainties

    One of the biggest challenges for farmers signing up for carbon credits is the uncertainty around carbon sequestration modeling. Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Farmers can earn carbon credits by implementing practices that increase soil carbon sequestration, such as reducing tillage, planting cover crops, and improving grazing management. However, the amount of carbon sequestered can vary depending on many factors, such as soil type, climate, and management practices.

    Carbon sequestration modeling is complex, and many uncertainties are associated with it. For example, it can be difficult to accurately measure the amount of carbon stored in the soil, and there is also uncertainty around how long the carbon will remain stored in the soil. These uncertainties can make it challenging for farmers to accurately predict how many carbon credits they will earn and can also make it difficult for buyers to verify the amount of carbon sequestered.

    Economic Considerations

    Another challenge for farmers signing up for carbon credits is the economic considerations. While carbon credits can provide an additional source of income for farmers, there are costs associated with implementing the practices that increase soil carbon sequestration. For example, planting cover crops can require additional seed and labor costs, and reducing tillage can require additional equipment and labor costs.

    In addition, the market for carbon credits can be volatile, and the price of carbon credits can fluctuate depending on supply and demand. This can make it difficult for farmers to predict how much income they will earn from carbon credits and can also make it difficult for buyers to plan for future carbon offset purchases.

    Despite these challenges and uncertainties, many farmers are still interested in signing up for carbon credits as a way to address the climate crisis and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels. By implementing practices that increase soil carbon sequestration, farmers can play an important role in mitigating climate change while also earning additional income.

    Future Perspectives

    Role of Technology

    Technology is rapidly advancing in the agricultural industry, and it is expected to play a crucial role in the future of carbon credits. Precision agriculture, for example, utilizes sensors and GPS to collect data on soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels. This data can be used to optimize crop yields, reduce inputs, and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. By using precision agriculture techniques, farmers can increase their productivity while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint.

    In addition to precision agriculture, other technologies such as satellite imagery, drones, and machine learning are being developed to help farmers better understand their land and make more informed decisions. These technologies can help farmers identify areas of their land that are particularly suited for carbon sequestration and can also help them monitor their progress over time.

    How can farmers ensure they are accurately measuring and reporting their carbon emissions?

    Farmers can ensure they accurately measure and report their carbon emissions by working with a qualified third-party verifier and following established protocols for measuring and reporting emissions. Farmers can also use tools such as carbon calculators to estimate their emissions and identify opportunities for emissions reduction.

    If you would like to learn more about how your operation can benefit from Carbon Credits, please reach out to us here.

  • Exposed Tree Roots: Practical Tips for a Healthy Landscape

    Trees are often the most valuable asset in your landscape. Tree roots usually grow just below the soil. However, sometimes we encounter a common problem: exposed tree roots. These unsightly roots can be a tripping hazard and disrupt the aesthetics of your outdoor space. In this guide, we will explore simple and practical solutions to help you deal with exposed tree roots and restore the beauty of your yard.

    Exposed tree roots occur when the soil erodes or the top layer of soil is washed away. This can happen due to heavy rainfall, poor drainage, or even natural soil erosion. It’s essential to address this issue promptly to avoid potential accidents and maintain a visually appealing landscape.

    The best way to treat this issue is to create a layer of mulch around the affected areas.

    Mulch acts as a protective barrier, helping to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent further erosion. Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the tree’s base, leaving a gap around the trunk to prevent moisture buildup.
This alone will solve most of the issues.

    Another solution that works well is to plant ground covers. Ground covers hide the exposed roots while adding beauty and functionality to your yard. Select low-growing plants that can withstand shade or low sunlight. This will vary depending on the tree’s canopy. Ground covers like periwinkle, ivy, or hostas can help control erosion, provide a lush ground cover, and enhance the area’s overall appeal.

    Be cautious about coving the tree roots with soil. One primary reason tree roots are exposed is to find oxygen. The soil may be clay and stays too wet, so the tree roots surface for oxygen. Tree roots need oxygen, and dumping a load of soil on them may just cut the oxygen.

    Finally, when dealing with severe root exposure or if you are still determining the best course of action, it is wise to seek professional advice. An arborist can assess the tree’s health, suggest appropriate solutions, and help mitigate any potential risks associated with the exposed roots. They have the expertise to handle complex root issues while ensuring the tree’s long-term health.

    Don’t let exposed tree roots ruin the beauty of your yard. With the solutions discussed in this guide, you can regain control over your landscape and create an inviting outdoor space. Remember to implement preventative measures and consult professionals when needed. By addressing the issue of exposed tree roots, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a visually appealing and safe yard for years to come.

  • The Power of Close Emitter Spacing: Enhancing Crop Yield and Efficiency with T-Tape

    T-Tape’s close emitter spacing feature continues to improve irrigation practices, enabling growers to achieve optimal crop growth, efficient water distribution, and significant water savings. In this article, we examine and discuss the benefits and results of close emitter spacing. We’ll also explore how T-Tape’s wide range of spacing options and flow rates caters to diverse agricultural needs.

    Maximizing Growth

    Close emitter spacing plays a vital role in bringing out the full potential of your crops. By providing a higher density of drip emitters along the tape, T-Tape ensures a more uniform and precise distribution of water and nutrients to the plants. This uniformity fosters optimal plant growth and improved crop yield and quality.

    Accelerating Wetted Front Formation

    With T-Tape’s close emitter spacing, growers benefit from the faster-wetted front formation. Compared to wider spacing options like 16 inches, an 8-inch emitter spacing can achieve a 100% wetted front in less than 40% of the time. This means plants receive water more quickly, reducing potential stress and promoting healthier growth.

    Enhanced System Efficiency

    By using close emitter spacing, T-Tape optimizes system efficiency in several ways. First, the shorter distance between emitters allows for more precise water delivery directly to the root zone, minimizing water waste and evaporation. Second, the increased density of emitters ensures better-wetted coverage across the entire field, leaving fewer dry spots. This efficient water distribution translates to improved irrigation performance and reduced water usage.

    Extending Run Length

    Another notable advantage of close emitter spacing is the ability to extend the run length of the irrigation system. With T-Tape’s ultra-low-flow rate at 8-inch spacing, growers can achieve an 18% longer run length than other 8-inch spacing options at high flow rates. This means that a single irrigation system can cover more ground, reducing the amount of water needed, and lower the need for additional infrastructure while increasing operational efficiency.

    Water Conservation

    Close emitter spacing enhances crop growth and contributes to water conservation. By applying water more precisely and uniformly, T-Tape’s close emitter spacing at (ULF) flow rates allows growers to achieve the same level of irrigation effectiveness with approximately half the water required compared to wider and higher spacing and flow rate options. This reduction in water usage promotes sustainable farming practices and reduces the strain on water resources.

    T-Tape’s close emitter spacing feature improves how we irrigate crops, delivering enhanced crop yields, improved system efficiency, and significant water savings. With faster-wetted front formation, extended run length, and reduced water consumption, growers can optimize their agricultural operations while promoting sustainability. Embrace the power of close emitter spacing with T-Tape and experience its transformative benefits for your crops and the environment.

  • 7 Causes of Water Scarcity in the United States

    People are often surprised when they learn we have water scarcity issues in the United States. For example, Flint, Michigan, experienced water issues for over six years. In 2014 a change in water supply from Lake Huron and the Detroit River to the Flint River caused severe problems for residents of Flint, Michigan. High levels of lead leached into the water supply. Around 100,000 people were exposed to elevated lead levels. Residents found other ways to cook, clean and bathe because they did not have clean running water for years.

    The Town of St. Joseph, Louisiana, has experienced water problems for years due to a poorly maintained and deteriorating water distribution system. It is recommended that residents use an alternative water source for personal consumption, ice making, brushing teeth, or food preparation and rinsing. The population of this town has been shrinking for the last 30 years.

    Several small towns in the Central Valley of California (even after the rains this past winter) are experiencing dry wells and no running water. Rio Verde Foothills is in unincorporated Maricopa County in Arizona. Many residents have private wells, but about 500 residents rely on water hauled from Scottsdale, Arizona. Scottsdale cut the water supply off, and now residents are on their own for water for at least a couple of years. The mayor of Scottsdale, David Ortega, said, “Water is not a compassion game.” I couldn’t disagree more.

    We will all have to make some sacrifices to solve water scarcity issues. The first step is to look below at seven common causes of water scarcity to learn how we can work together and prevent more of these issues from happening.

    1. Drought – Periods of prolonged dry weather reduce water availability specific to regions. The big challenge is today, an area can have plenty of water and, in just a couple of years of dry weather, be upside down with water. This is becoming more common and more challenging. If you want to learn about the causes of drought, you can read about it here.

    2. Population Growth – There are many great reasons to move to one of the Southwest states in the U.S. An abundance of water is not one of them. The big challenge here is that cities responsible for honest assessments of water supply are also responsible for attracting new residents and prosperity. There is a built-in conflict of interest.

    3. Climate Change – This goes hand in hand with drought and the changing rain patterns in the U.S. This past winter in California was an example of too much rain in too short of a period. Currently, there is no way to capture all the water that fell, and constructing water storage for these rogue water years is expensive and hard to get taxpayers to pay for during times of normal rain.

    4. Water Pollution – Industrial waste or agricultural runoff can impact areas quickly. Contaminates are a real issue, sometimes caused by companies and sometimes by individuals.

    5. Inefficient Water Use – Inefficient irrigation systems for agriculture and urban areas largely contribute to water scarcity issues. In the West, Agriculture uses around 80% of the water. Implementing smart irrigation and technology when that is readily available at a reasonable price will go a long way to help solve water scarcity issues.

    6. Aging Infrastructure – A Stanford University study in 2020 estimates that 20% to 50% of water is lost to North America’s supply system leaks. There was a Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2023 that includes over $8 billion for the aging water infrastructure.

    7. Over-Extraction of Groundwater – Overpumping groundwater faster than it can be replenished is a big water issue. Agricultural practices like drip irrigation slow the over-pumping of groundwater by reducing the amount of water wasted. We need more growers to use smart irrigation practices like drip irrigation to help solve water issues.

    This is not the final list or even a perfect list. There are many more challenges and solutions. The challenges tend to move from region to region. The key is awareness of the issues, learning from the challenges, and taking steps to ensure the problems don’t reach your community. If you enjoyed this post, please consider subscribing to the blog or following me on Twitter at H2oTrends.

  • “Day Of Reckoning” Coming For Colorado River Water Supply

    Last week during a two-hour Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing, members heard this from John Entsminger, general manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority,  “What has been a slow-motion train wreck for 20 years is accelerating, and the moment of reckoning is near.” You can watch the entire committee hearing here. Mr. Entsminger was not the only person to ring loud alarm bells during the hearing. Everyone else provided worrisome testimony as well.

    Why This Is A Big Deal

    The Colorado River travels more than 1400 miles through the West and provides water for seven western states. This water is used for drinking water, farming, ranching, recreation, and manufacturing. Almost 40 million Americans rely on Colorado River Water directly, and many more when you consider how much is grown in the West to supply food for the rest of the United States. Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the United States by volume and is second only to Lake Powell in surface area. Currently, they are at 29% capacity and 27%, respectively. Lake Mead has not been at full capacity since the summer of 1983.

    What Is The Solution

    Most of what we’ve seen in the press for solutions is more of a stick than a carrot solution in the way of fines and demands that people slow or stop their watering landscapes in urban areas altogether. Demanding homeowners stop watering their lawns or planting turf alone will not solve the water crisis. It will take a concerted effort to focus on the most significant opportunities to conserve. For example, in California last July, a drought emergency was declared, and Californians were asked to reduce urban water use in the state by 15% compared to 2020 levels. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, urban water use in the state only amounts to 10% of total water use. So a 15% reduction on 10% of the use amounts to less than a 2% reduction in the total amount of water used.

    Top Five Opportunities For Water Conservation

    1. The technology exists today to reduce ag water use dramatically. Soil moisture sensors connected to Jain Logic software show how deep water has penetrated the soil eliminating watering past the root zones of plants and trees, wasting water and nutrients. Satellite imagining combined with local sensors and evapotranspiration data is a reasonably priced solution every grower should be using, yet a large majority have not made the investment. Farmers are excellent businesspeople. Let’s take some of the $4 per square foot to remove turf dollars and reallocate them to incentives in agriculture to install drip irrigation and irrigation technology. $4 per square foot to remove turf totals $174,240 an acre. A much better investment would be to spread the $174K to 100 acres of agricultural land for technology and drip, and the water savings would be dramatically higher.
    1. Industrial water use totals around 22% of global consumption. A typical semiconductor plant uses 2 to 4 million gallons of pure water daily. There are no water use reporting standards for industrial water use. It isn’t easy to see what companies are doing well and which ones need improvement. Cell phones, cotton tee shirts, jeans, beer, and hamburgers, all take water to be produced. This is one of the best opportunities to save and one of the best opportunities for those companies conserving water to promote water-saving and their products simultaneously.
    1. A Stanford University study estimates that 20% -50% of water is lost to leaks in North America’s supply system. This is a number that is hard to comprehend. It makes the idea of not washing your car and not watering your lawn as often seem ridiculous when considering how much water could be saved by repairing the water infrastructure.
    1. An estimated 80% of the rainwater that falls in Southern California ends up diverting to the ocean. Cities need to invest more in rainwater harvesting, and more importantly, citizens need to step up and pay more taxes (less than $100 per person) to make this happen.
    1. The best way to get people to conserve water is to raise the price. However, the cost of water depends on its use. So it’s time to reassess how much we charge for commercial, urban, and ag water use and price accordingly to drive water conservation.

    This list is not the only way to save, but the areas that will make the most significant difference in the shortest period of time. I encourage all of us to conserve appropriately in our personal lives, set good examples, and raise awareness. As consumers, we drive habits with our wallets, and we should be looking to purchase products from companies looking to save water. I’m sure you also have some additional ideas, and we would love to hear them in the comments section. If you enjoyed this article, please consider subscribing or following me on Twitter at H2oTrends.

  • How To Care For Plants During A Heat Wave

    Heatwaves are occurring more frequently than they use to, and higher temperatures mean your plants need more water and it’s getting harder to care for plants during a heat wave.  With such unusually high heat, we need to take a few extra steps to keep our landscapes healthy. The water needs in heat waves vary wildly from plant to plant and even from place to place, based on both the air temperature, ET and the soil type that’s in your garden.

    Below is a quick list of things you can do today to care for your plants during a heat wave.

    They are water-efficient practices that help your landscape stay healthier in the heat and helps you care for your plants during a heat wave:

    1. An extra late afternoon watering helps keep the plant roots cool.
    2. Make shade for your plants. Think to repurpose here. Old window screens, wood lattice, or if your plants are tall, install a sunshade beside them to protect the base from the sun.
    3. Remove weeds to reduce competition for moisture.
    4. Water early in the morning, right before dawn, this reduces losses to wind and evaporation.
    5. Test the spray patterns of sprinkler systems, check for clogged lines and mixed nozzle sizes of sprinkler heads, repair leaks.
    6. Use drip irrigation to reduce water usage. An emitterline or a blank irrigation tubing with emitters is recommended. You can purchase a 100% Virgin Resin Dripline from the Jain Online Store.
    7. Set lawn mower blades higher to increase ground shade and water retention in soil.
    8. Mulch around shrubs and planters to reduce evaporation and cut down on weeds.
    9. Install an ETwater smart controller using Jain Unity to ensure your plants receive the correct amount of water.

    You’ve worked too hard to let your landscape fail in the heat. Unfortunately, the hot sun can be brutal on garden plants and their roots.

    These tips help If watering and mulching are not doing enough to keep your plants cool enough to continue producing.

    If you liked this article, here is an interesting tidbit from SF Gate.

    Care For Plants During A Heat Wave

    Once the extreme temperatures break, check the strength of your plants and turf. You can decide after a few weeks to recover the plants before deciding whether to clip or prune your plants, this one of the most essential steps to care for your plants during a heat wave.

    Maintaining a healthy landscape all year long will make it easier to preserve during a heat wave. Keep up with your watering with your smart irrigation controller and interface, we do recommend using Jain Unity for your smart controller. Jain Unity is compatible with majority of the smart controllers in the market with a device called Hermit Crab, if you do not have an existing controller you can purchase an ETwater SmartBox that is 100% compatible with Jain Unity from the Jain Online Store. This will give your lawn and garden a greater chance of survival in most weather conditions.

    For additional resources to prevent heat stress and to care for your plants during the heatwave, you can read this article from Oregon State University here as well as a few tips that could help you care for your plants during a heatwave here.

    Also, don’t forget late summer is the time to plant your fall-producing crops, such as spinach, lettuce, broccoli, carrots, beets, and radishes. Midsummer, one of my favorite times of the year because it is full of melons, plums, nectarines, and peaches. It’s the best time to plan a fall vegetable strategy.

    It is also the time to start planning your fall garden before the days grow too short and the nights too cold. Here are the steps you should take to make sure your fall vegetables are successful and some of my favorite fall vegetables to plant. Here is an amazing article to plan your fall vegetable strategy.