Watering the Garden

The Earth waters the plants in spring

Whether by fog, frost, rain, sleet, hail, ice, or snow, the Earth gets watered without the help of humans; but in between nature’s self-watering process, the garden may need a little assistance. In the spring and fall, with an increase in rainfall and cooler temperatures, there’s not much a gardener needs to water in the established garden and landscape; but during the growing season of summer, watering is essential in many cases.

Watering should only be done for reasons such as drought, which usually occurs in the summertime; after newly planted bulbs, lawns, shrubs, trees, and perennials are installed,  which could take a few weeks until they are established; after dividing and transplanting; and immediately after applying fertilizing to any plant, which includes the lawn. Of course, in spring, seeds, seedlings and vegetables should be watered until established.

Watering the garden too much can increase the garden’s need for water. It also kills the plants from lack of oxygen to the roots which causes root rot. Drowning the roots is a common reason why many plants die. Another common mistake gardeners make is not watering planters enough.  Plants in containers, pots, urns, hanging baskets or flower boxes need to be watered more frequently, and almost everyday if the planter is in full sun. During the hot summer, planters heat up and dry out much quicker because the soil is shallow and the roots are not anchored in the ground. Water pots when the soil surface feels dry to the touch.

The Earth waters the plants in summer

Once a gardener has the “when to water” down packed, they must then learn the correct “way to water” a garden:

1. When watering large planters, pots and urns, remember to water in the center of the pot not on the sides. 

2. Water the containers until the water flows from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Too much shallow watering will lead to shallow roots; and shallow roots lead to the plant drying out much sooner in hot or drought conditions. 

3. Once the water escapes from the planter, continue to water for at least another minute or two so that the pot will be drench completely, which includes the outer circumference were roots also travel. Many times a quick hit of the hose doesn’t saturate the sides all the way to the bottom. 

4. Water in the early morning, if possible, because watering plants in the evening can invite plant mold and mildew; especially on perennials like monarda or mums. Plants that are susceptible to flower blight or leaf spot must be watered earlier than later, so the sun has a chance to dry the leaves, which prevents disease. 

5. Don’t water the foliage of any plant in the hot afternoon sun because it will burn the leaves. 

6. Always water plants, shrubs and trees at the drip line. 

7. Foundation plantings along a stone or brick wall of the house must be watered, especially in full sun, because the sun reflects off the stone and also holds in heat. You can use a soaker hose or sprinkler if the area is large. If any of the foundation plants are located under a gutter, awning, or the part of the roof that hangs over the house, then gardeners must keep an eye on them because only sprays of rain will reach the plant. If possible, avoid planting directly against the house for these reasons. 

8. Any potted plant that uses a lot of water such as a Fuschia, as well as, any root bound plants may have to be watered twice a day. 

9. Remember when planting on hills, banks, and berms that the water will run off before it sinks down into the plant.  Water plants on slopes by applying water for a few seconds, then remove the hose until that water sinks in, then re-apply water, then remove, and then continue on and off until you feel the water has reached the roots.   Many shrubs and trees die on slopes because the water immediately runs off and never gets to the roots. 

10. The water speed at which the gardener waters the plant can also result in run off instead of penetration; so don’t water using a hose on a full force setting. 

11. Never let newly planted trees or shrubs dry out. Trees and shrubs can be very unforgiving if left to dry out, and will not rejuvenate when finally watered; whereas most perennials and annuals that dry out will bounce back if watered within a day or so. Once established in a month or so; they should be fine unless a drought occurs.

The Earth waters the plants in the winter

A green thumb is not necessary when it comes to growing houseplants. Most houseplants die due to either lack of water or too much water. Whether houseplants or outdoor plants, the general rule is that watering need only be done when the soil is dry to the touch. But there are quite a few tropical houseplants that have more challenging requirements; so be careful to read the care instructions before purchasing.

Nowadays, there are self-watering gadgets for watering houseplants, sprinkling systems for gardens and landscapes, and irrigations systems for farms; all of which make watering a no-brainer and can be performed without the human touch. But for the die-hard gardener and nature enthusiast, watering is part of the fun.  Gardeners must remember that conserving water for the planet is critical. Although watering can be fun and therapeutic; if there’s no need to water, don’t.