The No. 1 problem in landscape is water. Sometimes too little and often too much. A recent article in the Coeur d’Alene Press revealed the enormous amounts of water used during the summer.

Sprinkler systems are often promoted as a way to effectively irrigate the landscape. That would be true if the sprinkler clock was managed for need. As I drive through town I notice homeowners’ HOAs, and the schools’ water seven days a week all season long. I have yet to see a landscape that needs water everyday. Excessive water leaches nutrients from the soil, reduce oxygen in the soil and prompts disease.

Just a view from a plant person.

DAN HAGUE

Horticulturist

Rathdrum