I live in the Central Valley of California where we get 100+ degree F weather (92 d expected today 4/26). My potted seedlings (this year's crop) sit under the canopy of an enormous japanese maple. I'm looking for advice on watering practices. Will drip irrigation work alone? or do I need to setup a mist system for the hotter parts of the day, to complement a drip system. How often to water in such hot temperatures? I've read Vertrees, however, he does not provide climate specific recommendations. Thanks in advance!
I don’t hesitate to water my maples that are in pots every day when the temperature climbs. As long as your soil mixture drains well you should not have a problem. I try to keep water off of the leaves to avoid mildew but trays of seedlings make that difficult. If I am going to use them for rootstock I strip the bottom leaves to allow me to spray the trays from the side to avoid wetting the leaves. You may not have a mildew problem where you are located. Dale
