How to Tell When Your Plants Really Need Water

Don't feel the soil. Look at the plants.

One of the most common questions gardeners ask is, “How often should I water?” The truth is, there isn’t one specific answer. Plants are like people, rigid water scheduling will do more harm than good. Weather, plant size, sun exposure, soil, and even the time of year can change how quickly a plant uses water.

Instead of watering simply because the clock says it’s time, learn to watch your plants.

A plant that needs water will usually tell you. Leaves may begin to lose their firmness, look dull, or droop slightly. That is very different from waiting until a plant is severely wilted. The more time you spend observing your garden, the easier these little signals become to recognize.

When you do water, water thoroughly at the root level. A gentle shower directed around the base of the plant is much more useful than briefly wetting the foliage and the top of the soil.

Newly planted perennials need closer attention while their roots become established. Mature plants generally have larger root systems and can often handle longer stretches between watering.

And remember: a hot, windy July afternoon is very different from a cool spring morning. Your garden doesn’t know what day of the week it is.

Let the plants tell you what they need.

Happy Planting,

Jennifer