Keep Plants & Wildlife Happy This Fall!
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We’re running about 8 inches short on rainfall this season, and while the weekend may bring a little relief—perhaps up to half an inch—our trees and gardens will still be thirsty. The good news is that taking care of your garden and the wildlife that visits your yard during a dry spell doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a few thoughtful watering habits, some mulch to hold in moisture, and a little extra care, you can support both your garden and the creatures that depend on it. Here are some simple ways to get started!
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Mulch retains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, and reduces water loss to evaporation. It's one of the best ways to keep your plants and soil healthy. Wood mulch can neaten the appearance of garden beds and keep down weeds, while straw mulch is fantastic for vegetable gardens.
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Central Illinois gardener Brenda recently shared this mulching win:
A shout out to mulching, I wouldn’t garden without it. Take a look at that red beet, the bottom is moist. 2/10” of rain in the past 6 weeks. I have watered a few things, peppers, cucumbers and some of the tomatoes but I have a large garden and if I had to water it all I wouldn’t have time to pick it. So back to mulch, it’s also a great weed suppressant, though granted they still like to sneak in but makes them more manageable.
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Tip:
When mulching trees, be sure to avoid the dreaded "mulch volcano." Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch around the base, without touching the trunks.
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Water deeply, not constantly
Instead of dragging out the hose every day, give your plants a good, deep soak once a week. Aim to moisten the soil 6–9 inches down for trees and 3–4 inches for perennials. This helps roots grow stronger and reach deeper, which makes your plants more resilient when dry weather lingers.
Choose the right time of day
People don't like being out in the heat of the day. Plants don't like being watered in the heat of the day, either, so it's a win-win! Watering in the morning or evening when it's cooler reduces evaporation, so more of that precious water actually reaches the roots.
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Target roots
The most effective watering happens at the surface, right where roots can take it up. A hose set on a slow trickle, micro-sprinklers, soaker hoses, or drip irrigation all help get water directly to the root zone. Overhead sprinklers lose much of that water to evaporation, so they’re not the best choice when every drop counts.
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If you’re on a limited water source, like a well, give priority to trees, shrubs, and perennials. Lawns can handle a dry spell by going dormant and will bounce back with rain, but newer plantings—especially young trees, shrubs, and perennials—need consistent support while they establish strong root systems.
Check out our handy watering guide for young trees.
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3. Support Wildlife Through the Dry Times
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Offer clean water
Just like plants, pollinators and wildlife rely on water, especially during dry spells. Shallow dishes, saucers or birdbaths tucked into shady garden spots can make a real difference. Add a few pebbles so that pollinators and small mammals can drink safely.
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Make access easy
As natural water sources shrink, adding a branch or a partially submerged rock can give salamanders, turtles and squirrels a safe way in and out of ponds and pools. These small touches help wildlife to stay hydrated and healthy.
Help hold soil moisture
A layer of mulch in wildlife-frequented areas helps keep the ground cool and moist, creating a more welcoming space for toads, beetles, and other ground dwellers.
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Pairing mulch with water-wise practices ensures both your garden and its visitors have the resources they need during dry spells, and keeps your landscape vibrant no matter the weather. Small steps, like offering clean water and protecting soil moisture, will nurture not only your yard, but also the larger community of life that it supports.
Happy gardening!
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