Deep watering improves drought resistance by promoting deeper, more extensive root systems. Depth of watering should be six to twelve inches for turf and bedding plants, and twelve inches for perennials, shrubs, and trees. One inch of irrigation wets a sandy soil to a depth of about 12 inches. Maintenance Examine the irrigation system and repair leaks promptly. Fertilization Don't fertilize or, if you do, do so with a low nitrogen fertilizer.
Fertilization stimulates growth and increases water needs.
Mulch Add mulch to beds to reduce evaporation from soil and to moderate soil temperature, reducing stress on roots. Final depth of your mulch should be 3 to 4 inches after settling. Greater water loss can occur with overhead irrigation because of evaporation and wind drift. Drooping leaves and a change in leaf color are signs of wilting. Many trees and shrubs can survive drought without irrigation, providing they are well-established and were irrigated prior to the drought.