Water is the most limiting factor when container grown stock is being considered. All water sources to be used in production must be tested. However, seedlings and transplants are normally only tolerant of water with 200 ppm. Your county extension agent can help with submission of water samples for testing. Total soluble salts, pH, calcium, carbonate, magnesium, and sodium levels should be determined prior to growing nursery stock.
Municipal water is generally fine but becomes expensive in large production areas.
Although chlorinated water is rarely harmful to plants, even one ppm fluorine may reduce salability of sensitive crops. Additionally, softened water is not appropriate for irrigation purposes. Determine the pressure, pipe size and flow rate of the water source. When city water cannot be used or is not desirable, determine if a suitable well can be drilled. Also, look elsewhere for water sources such as streams, lakes, etc.