D igging into my raised beds for vegetable planting, the soil seemed different from other years. The task of spring cleanup is normally soothing; the early season weeds lift from the ground easily and the earth turns over with little pressure from the trowel.

But this year the soil was hard, the weeds stubbornly holding on, and the task more difficult. Digging deep the reason was clear: that ground is bone dry. If a gardener wants vegetables in what promises to be a hot, dry season, a plan is needed for making the most of the water.

Before planting, amend the soil with organic material, such as plant-based compost. This helps break up the clay, holds water, and provides better growing conditions for roots during times of stress.

Drip irrigation can reduce water use by about 50 percent, so invest in soaker hoses, spaghetti lines with emitters, or other types of slow delivery systems for water. Known as a "leaky pipe", the soaker hose allows water to seep out all along its length at a slow rate. Emitter type hoses, with small disks that seep water, can be good for use on individual plants, such as peppers.

A smart move is choosing varieties that withstand hot, dry conditions; many are available that resist bolting, which is when the plant stops growing edible leaves in favor of flowers and seed.

Then plant in blocks, rather than rows, which increases yield in a smaller area with less surface to irrigate. As plants grow, their leaves fill in, shading roots and conserving water in the soil. Group plants with similar water needs together on the same soaker hose, such as cucumbers with zucchinis.


Mulching is one of the best methods for conserving water, lowering water needs by up to 50-percent. Place 1 to 3 inches of organic mulch, such as dried grass clippings or straw, over the bed, covering irrigation hoses. Avoid wood or bark chips in the vegetable garden; they interfere with future seedbed preparation.

Here's a rundown on the critical watering periods for vegetables; target your watering around this for best results. In general, water is needed during the first few weeks of development, immediately after transplant, and during formation of edible parts.

Asparagus needs water most during spear production and fern development.



Carrot and other root crops need consistent moisture. Cracking, knobby and hot flavor root crops are symptoms of water stress.


Lettuce and other leafy vegetables need water most during head development. For high quality, these require consistent moisture.

Onions require consistent moisture and frequent irrigation due to their small, inefficient root system.

Peas need water most during pod filling.

Potatoes will be knobby if they become overly dry during tuber development.



Water during early morning, when wind is low and temperatures are cool, using a timer to make sure it shuts off if you get distracted. With these plans in place, watering restrictions limiting irrigation to every two or three days should not have a major impact on the vegetable garden.