When you apply proper watering techniques your lawn will become healthier, develop a stronger root system, and will be better able to resist disease and pests. With the drought and watering restriction now in place for Pinellas County, it’s important to get the most out of what watering your allowed. Here are some watering tips for St.. Pete residents. 

Water first thing in the morning or in the early evening 

I see it all the time…people who water their lawns when the sun is at its strongest. Most of the water will be lost to evaporation. And none of it will reach the roots where it’s needed most. Also when you water at the recommended times you reduce the risk of fungal and bacterial disease from developing and spreading within your lawn. Watering is one the most beneficial lawn maintenance tips you can apply for a beautiful St. Petersburg lawn. More watering tips will follow in the coming days. Remember, we are under watering restriction and you should only watering on your designated watering day.

If you love vegetables and the outdoors, fall is the perfect time to start your own vegetable garden. There are pumpkins, corn and many other fruits and vegetables that’ll grow during the fall season. So, what’s the best way to get started? Visit your local gardening shop, nursery or home improvement center and ask the staff which vegetables grow best during the cool down season.

Some Vegetables planted in the fall will spring up in the summer while other will take longer. Be sure you understand the growing cycle of plants your wanting to grow before sticking them into the ground.

As with any planting or gardening, there are steps follow. You first must till the soil and add soil amendments like compost or topsoil. Generally speaking fall vegetables are hardier than other seasonable plants and less likely to die under harsh climate.

Once you’ve decided on the vegetables you are going to grow, it’s time to get them into the ground. Dig out the proper size hole and pack firmly the soil around them.

Remember, all plants need food; water and care to ensure they thrive in their new environment. Weeding the gardening area regularly is necessary. Weeds rob the soil of nutrients and can choke the life out of a plant. In addition, keep the proper spacing between plants, so they don’t become crowded and compete for growing space.

After your crop is producing fruit, pick the vegetables as they ripen. Fresh vegetables are a favorite for many people. Growing them own your own has the added benefit of knowing its free of harmful chemicals.