The Black Sea is rainy, but that does not mean every root zone gets enough water in July and August. Samsun’s climate classification, which allows a moderate summer water deficit, is a useful break with that habit.
A short shower may never reach the roots
A brief rain can wet the leaves and the first few centimetres, then pass. On a sloping or compacted surface the water may run off. After rain, a small test hole shows how deep the moisture actually went.
A new transplant and an established tree do not draw the same water
A newly planted seedling has roots in a small volume; an established tree can draw water from a much wider area of soil. After the same rain, one can be short of water while the other is comfortable.
Morning watering gives wet leaves time to dry
Watering in the morning gives water time to reach the roots and, if leaves get wet, makes it easier for them to dry during the day. Leaving foliage wet all night can be unwelcome for some diseases.
Deep watering is not a pond
Deep watering does not mean turning the garden into a lake. The aim is to reach the target root depth. Very frequent, very shallow watering may keep only the top layer moist.
Mulch does not hide a drainage problem
Mulch can reduce surface evaporation, but it should not be used to cover a drainage problem on ground that stays heavy and wet. Decide to water from the forecast, the last rain, the soil, and the plant’s stage of growth.
