Here are some basic watering techniques:

• Allow the water to seep slowly into the soil. A more rapid application may cause the water to run off instead of soaking into the soil. Soaker hoses are ideal for this type of watering, especially in the flower and vegetable gardens.

• Water the vegetable garden regularly throughout the growing season, providing at least 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water per week at one sprinkling.

• Keep soil in containers moist; do not allow it to dry out. Water container plants until the water seeps through the drainage holes.