|
For years we had an oversized rain gauge mounted on a deck post. It
performed its duty admirably, like a silent sentinel. The cylinder
markings were large
enough to be read from the driveway below, a full story away. If we
saw more than one-inch of measured rain, we knew outdoor plants had
received a good watering for the week, especially if the rain had
fallen slowly.
After ten-plus years of sun, wind, rain (and a couple unintentional
freezes before it hibernated inside) my plastic rain gauge fell
apart. Only now, after being without a rain gauge for the entire
2008 growing season, do I fully appreciate its value.
An obvious absence, if
you will.
It was
rarely missed early in the 2008 growing season since we started out with plenty of rain, but the sparse rains later in the
summer really left me guessing when it mattered most. Did
we get enough rain, or do we need to water?
I guarantee you that we won’t be without a tool as basic and
important as a rain gauge for any part of another landscaping
season!
Bob
|
