Our outdoor plants are parched in this heat, but we are free of drought

If you have young trees, they should be watered regularly throughout the summer. (photo courtesy of Casey Trees)

by Marlene Berlin

Trees are looking parched, with curled up leaves. Plants are wilting. But we are not in a drought, according to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG).

COG’s July 15th report on the region’s water supply declared it so.

The report acknowledges below normal precipitation in the preceding 30 days, and that the Potomac River’s flow is below the median level. But it notes that groundwater where monitored is at normal levels and reservoirs are full.

Most certainly, we are better off than those under “megadrought” conditions in the western United States. However, we can always do more to conserve water.

COG has a report for that, too: a very detailed 2013 guide for planning yards and gardens to minimize water use. I must admit that my eyes started to glaze over, but maybe I just needed a drink of water.