Hi Karla,

it depends on what type of an irrigation system you're using to water your garden fruits and vegetables. If you are using drip irrigation that is the least risky method. But if you were using sprinkler irrigation on fresh fruits and vegetables there is a greater risk for contamination of harmful pathogens that are found in irrigation water such as Salmonella, E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium .

Here is a resource that gives more guidance and details about considerations for using irrigation water on fresh fruits and vegetables. https://cals.cornell.edu/national-good-agricultural-practices-program/resources/educational-materials/decision-trees/agricultural-water-production

If you have further questions please call our Montezuma County Master Gardener Help Desk on Tuesdays from 10am-1pm.<personal data hidden>.

Best,

Emily

You're welcome! Happy (safe!) gardening :)

Emily