Learn how to irrigate your home garden
It’s no secret that gardens need water, and that than be pretty scarce when the dry season comes upon us.
On Thursday, Nov. 19, at 6:30 p.m. at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, the Edible Gardening Exchange will discuss irrigation and how to keep those plants sufficiently watered.
The guest speaker for the November meeting will be Fred Geist, who has been the owner of a successful commercial contracting maintenance company in Denver for 30 years, employing more than 65 people.
He is a licensed tree trimmer, licensed pesticide applicator in five categories, and has owned a small licensed irrigation service business in Fort Myers for five years.
“There’s a need for people to understand how to irrigate, especially here in the winter when it doesn’t rain for weeks,” said Karen Harty, who runs the Edible Gardening Exchange. “They need to know the basics of drip irrigation.”
Harty said the best way to water a plant is to not wet its leaves. Any diseases in the soil can splash up on the leaves and causes problems.
Geist is an active master gardener in both Colorado and Florida where he volunteers his time and expertise.
Geist said every situation is different.
A native evergreen may not need any water, especially if established, while a citrus tree needs to be watered near its roots.
“Make sure you put it in the roots and not on top of the ground where the water will run off. Find where those roots are,” Gest said. “I always tell people your front door will always be six-feet, 10-inches. Your landscape will be totally different, and so will your watering needs. It’s a process.”
Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for an open and informal chat on edible topics. Consider bringing something to share with other gardeners (seeds, plants, a snack). Bring your own cup for free coffee and tea.
The membership fee for monthly meetings through March is $10. In addition, a $10 Lee Parks and Rec lifetime membership is required.
For more information, contact Harty at 610- 530-8883.