Growing Vegetable Gardens During the Drought

Since conservation efforts are cutting water use for people who live in areas with stage 3 water restriction, gardening experts say growing vegetables now will be difficult but not impossible.

"When you garden and you love it.. you want to figure out the best ways to do it," says Beth Turlignton.

Beth Turlington is a member of the Wichita County Master Gardeners Association.

She says finding ways to take care of a garden during stage three water restrictions is possible.

"It's easy to do. Just pick what it is you really want and then... catch rain water. That's a huge thing cause watering from your tap... we're only allowed X amount of water," Turlington explains.

And when it comes from getting water from above people aren't holding their breaths.

When it comes to growing anything, moisture is key that's why during stage 3 water restrictions experts say soaker hoses and mulch are crucial.

"Keep everything really heavily mulched. Use an organic mulch. Use hardwood. Use compost. Use turkey compost but use something that's going to... as it breaks down will help enrich your soil," says Turlington.

Turlington also says when it comes to planting tomatoes, peppers and other popular items for this time of year think outside the box and focus on the bed-- your flower bed because most are mulched.

And she says be sure you have soaker hoses to help your plants and veggies stay moist even in the midst of a drought.

If the area doesn't receive a lot more rain it is possible that cities, like Wichita Falls, will enter stage 4 emergency drought restrictions.

Unfortunately, Turlington says if and when that happens gardeners will most likely not be able to grow any fruits and vegetables because watering those plants will be even harder.

For more tips on gardening during drought conditions click here.