Most vegetable gardens require about 1 inch of water per week. A few plants such as summer squash and sweet corn may need more water than this, say 2 inches or so. Other plants such as melons and winter squash in the ripening stage may produce higher quality fruit with less water; excess water tends to dilute sugars in melons. Regardless, plants perform best when the water is applied as infrequent, deep irrigations rather than frequent, shallow waterings. A layer of organic mulch (straw) 2 to 3 inches deep will help slow evaporation and conserve moisture. A rain gauge to measure rainfall will help you know when to irrigate. Also, watch plants for obvious signs of water stress (wilting, leaf curling), although it is best to water prior to these symptoms being displayed.
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