Water is not enough; and hydrant water isn’t that good.
Now that we’ve got a garden full of green growing plants;
the trick is to be able to harvest them. And that means we
have to avoid sharing them with other animal consumers.
One of the reasons for frequently visiting your box or plot; is to
inspect the plants, looking for evidence of pest infestation. It’s
important when growing organically; not to wait for the pests
to take hold. As well, it is important to remove both; materials
and conditions that promote plant damage.
Don’t know what to look for or what to do? There’s a wealth of
Information on-line and at the Public Library. We have an under-
used branch right off 7th Avenue west on 115th street. But if you find
evidence of crop damage report it to a garden contact and we’ll try to
help-. Just remember; it’s up to you to be a good gardener by coming
around to check on your planting space and contributing some general
clean-up help.
Right now; I’ve seen evidence of Aphids and Inch Worms: notice either
Gray rust on new growth or holes in your juicy collards? Let’s get with it!
If enough people send word in of their availability we can ask the Cornell
Extension folks, to set us up with someone to do a workshop on gardening
pests. But we won’t call them for a session with the five or six regulars.
Interested?
Leave a comment on this post; and indicate the days and times you’d attend
such a workshop.
As for water from the hydrant; it’s better than nothing: but it doesn’t compare to
Natural rainwater. It contains Chlorine; a disinfectant harmful to tender roots and
beneficial soil biologicals. At best, it should be let to sit in open air for 24-48 hrs.
And then used judiciously on plants. Just because we’ve got access to city water for
Free; doesn’t mean we should be wasteful or unmindful of the costs and effects.
Also, most of our plants need dry periods to allow oxygen to get into the soil. If we
have a drought then we use the hydrant water. Soon a sprinkling system will be in
place. But the less we use of it otherwise; the better many of our plants will do. Yes;
there are times when plants need more water than Nature might be providing: but
we amatures are more likely to overwater; than underwater.
Let’s get smarter about watering!! And let’s get ready to support
Rain-water collection as a garden priority. There are plenty of tote containers that
can be placed near your plot; covered when full; and left open when rain is predicted.
Our goal is to work with nature to produce more abundantly: it takes a little work.
Carrie McCracken TRUCE Community Garden 