Evening star., 1935-08-08

not prove as tiresome as II only one way
is used, that of the nozzle. The standard
nozzle is indispensable, but it is not the
only thing by any means.
For watering flower borders and beds,
especially in extremely hot, dry weather,
there is nothing so good as the open
hose without any attachment.
Usually the force of the water is cut
down some at the source, thus permit
ting steady flow, but not too hard.
In this way tremendous amount of
water is placed just where it is needed.
None is wasted. The adjustment of the
water force may require some expert
ment, but after it is ascertained this is
surely one of the best ways of using the
hose.
A real soaking is given the ground,
perhaps as much as the plots would re-
ceive in driving downpour. Since the
flow is comparatively easy, but steady,
practically all the water sinks into the
earth, almost none of it flowing away.
Use of the open hose is exceptionally
good for evergreens and shrubs. The
former often do not get as much water
as they need. Magical effects may be
secured with some eVergreens by per-
SlStent heavy watering. Even after they
turn brown and seem about ready to be
dug up and hauled away they may be
brought back to life and beauty in some
cases by removing the nozzle and per-
mitting the water to flow steadily at
their roots. If they are near founda-
ton walls care must be taken not to
soak the ground too thoroughly, how
ever, as few walls will stand this treat
ment without leaking. Many a wall,
pride of the builder, succumbs to this
closeup application of water.
There remain two ways of using the
hose-with the nozzle and with any one
of the many types Of sprinkler Each
of them has its good points. The fault
of the former lies mostly in the plain
fact that it requires great deal of
time with the ordinary spray to put
any appreciable amount of water either
on lawns or beds. If too coarse a stream
is used leaves and blossoms may be
harmed, whereas if too fine a spray is
played it takes too long to do any good
Yet the standard nozzle has its points
In watering the lawn medium spray
is perhaps the best of ALL Sprinkler
attachments have their uses, especially
when the gardener does not wish to
stand holding a hose. If the attach
ment can be moved from time to time
without the water being turned off
and without wetting the operator great
deal has been gained.
If one has neither the time nor in
clination to water an entire lawn in
very dry spells great deal of good may
be done by devoting the attention solely
to the areas that show the effects of
drought.
If these bad spots are watered thor
oughly-and it is much easier to thor
oughly water few square feet than
an entire lawn-an amazing improve
ment may be secured, in many cases,
over night.
Even the best lawns will develop these
bad places. Probably there is better
drainage beneath them. Maybe stones
are working their way to the surface.
At any rate. they need more water and
should receive it. The remainder of the
lawn can take care of itself very we'll.
AS long as it can do so it is better for
it if it does so, since it is Natures way.
Mans interference, however, helps at
times. His interference with the gar
den hose is one of his best Interruptions
into the scheme of Nature. Let him
not be chary with it when it is needed.