Hi Kristie --

I usually water by hand until June, either with the watering can or the hose with a showerhead-like attachment. (I've found that just the hose by itself can wash out little seedlings!)

The good thing about watering by hand is it gets me out to look at the plants at least once or twice a day. That way, I can keep a better eye out for disease, insect predation, etc. before it becomes a widespread problem.

I have a watering can out there sitting in the sun, warming the water. Right now I have to water daily, even under covers, due to the wind. I agree with Laura you want to watch them closely. Soon I'll turn on the spigot in the middle of the garden and use the hose.

Dan

I wouldn't direct sow the cukes & pumpkins yet though, it's still kinda early for those.

Here is a link that might be useful: Tales of a Transplanted Gardener