Watering your plants at the right time ensures they stay healthy, reduces water waste, and improves plant growth. This guide covers the best time to water, watering methods, and tips to save water during summer.
Best Time to Water Your Plants
- Early Morning (5–9am): Roots absorb water efficiently before the sun increases evaporation; soil is cooler and plants experience less stress.
- Late Evening: Watering after sunset allows overnight absorption; avoid wet foliage in humid conditions to reduce disease risk.
Tip: Automatic watering systems, drip lines, soaker hoses, or sprinklers with timers ensure consistent watering. Moisture sensors help water only when needed, saving water and effort.
Why Avoid Midday Watering
- Midday is hottest and breeziest; water evaporates or is blown off-target.
- Plants in heat-stress cannot use water effectively.
- Water early morning or evening (dry climates) and avoid wet foliage overnight in humid areas.
Efficient Watering Methods
Help Soil Retain Moisture
- Dig organic matter into garden borders for better retention.
- Apply mulch to keep soil cool, reduce evaporation, and suppress weeds.
- In containers, mix water-retaining granules into compost.
Consider Plant Location
- Pots, containers, and hanging baskets dry quickly; may need watering twice a day.
- Water slowly until it drains; ~1/10th of container volume each time.
- Use long-reach nozzles or watering wands for high baskets.
Know What Not to Water
- Prioritize plants over lawns during dry spells.
- Lawns recover faster; mow less and avoid cutting too short.
Consider Plant Type and Age
- Annuals: shallow roots; water frequently.
- New shrubs/perennials: extra watering for root establishment.
- Established shrubs/trees: tolerate short dry spells; prioritize young plants in heat.
Watering Fruit and Vegetables
- Leafy crops and thirsty plants (tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes) need regular watering.
- Less thirsty crops (onions, carrots, radishes, herbs) need less frequent watering.
Watering Techniques
Practice Deep Watering
- Water thoroughly to encourage deep root growth.
- Avoid light, frequent watering which only wets the surface.
Water at the Base of Plants
- Keep foliage dry to reduce fungal diseases.
- Drip irrigation delivers water directly to roots with minimal waste.
- Soaker hoses release water slowly along borders or vegetable rows; ideal for heavy soils.
- Drip line irrigation ensures consistent water delivery for larger areas.
Using a Drip Irrigation System
- Delivers water directly to individual plant bases.
- Adjustable emitters tailor flow for different plants.
- Works for containers, beds, or full garden borders.
- Can be automated with timers for hands-free watering.
- Efficient and water-saving; often exempt from hosepipe bans.
Reusing Water
Rainwater
- Collect from roofs into butts or tanks; free of chemicals, contains nutrients.
- Feed watering cans, soaker hoses, or pumps for longer runs.
Greywater
- Reuse water from baths, showers, or washing-up (avoid harsh chemicals).
- Collect in watering cans or use a greywater system.
- Do not rely solely on greywater for long-term plant health.
Key Takeaways
- Water early morning or late evening for best absorption.
- Focus on the roots, not foliage.
- Improve soil moisture retention with organic matter and mulch.
- Prioritize vulnerable and young plants.
- Use efficient watering
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