Watering Plants - The Do's and Don'ts

Watering our plants may seem like the simplest job in the world but there's actually rules that we need to follow to do this correctly. In this blog, we will talk about the do's and don'ts of watering plants in order to keep your flora heathy and thriving.

Why is Watering Plants Properly Important?

Like any living thing, we all need food and water but if we aren't consistent or consume the right amounts, it could cause damage to health. Plants are no different. They need clean water to keep them hydrated and if we don't water plants properly, we risk damaging their health so it's best we are prepared.

So let's get in to it!

The Do's

Water Early in the Morning

As the temperature is cooler, plants will start using water to help get them through the day, especially in the warmer months. So make sure when you've woken up and had your breakfast, you're giving your plants something to drink as well.

Use Mulch to Retain Moisture

To make sure moisture stays in your plants soil, laying down a layer of mulch can help. Mulch locks moisture in soil to help reduce evaporation so no matter what the temperature is, your plants will stay hydrated. It can also help by covering the roots of your plants too so they don't dry up.

Water Deeply

Whilst we're on the topic of roots, when you're watering your plants you'll want to make sure you're watering deeply. "What does that mean" we hear you ask. It just means, when you're watering, don't just wet the top layer of the soil. Pour enough water so it can get deep into the soil to the roots. This ensures the roots are as hydrated as the rest of the plant is.

Beware of Water Stress

If you start to see that some of your plants aren't looking as healthy, that could be a sign of water stress. Lack of water, especially in warmer temperatures can cause plants to become wilted, droopy, discoloured or smaller in size. Keep an eye out for any of these signs and if you spot any, don't feel you have to give your plant a lot of water! You'll cause more harm to it. Simply moisten the soil and regularly water the plant once a week.

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The Don'ts

Don't Under or Over Water

The amount of times you water your plants is just as important as how much water you give them. If you water your plants too much, it can drown them and cause a lack of oxygen to their roots. Too little and you can cause your plants to dry up and wilt.

Don't Treat All Plants the Same

Following on from the previous point, when it comes to watering plants, you can't treat all plants the same. They all require a different amount of water as well as how often you water them. When you buy your plants, check how much water they require and how many times a week they'll get thirsty so that you can keep them healthy and hydrated.

Never Rely on Rain

If you have plants outside, you can't just rely on the rain to water them. Yes, we know, the UK can have some seriously wet weather but we also have some lovely, warmer months too. When the weather becomes drier and hotter, don't forget your outdoor plants will need a drink as much as you will!

Don't Forget The Trees

As well as indoor and outdoor plants, trees & hedges will need to be hydrated too. How often you water them depends on the time of year and the type of tree/hedge you have so be sure to research so you don't over or under water them.

How Can HSS Help?

Now you know the do's and don'ts of watering your plants, you'll be able to keep them alive for longer. At HSS, we have a wide range of watering products from hoses, spray guns and watering cans you can buy that can keep your greenery healthy and looking its best throughout the year. For any questions or queries about any gardening tools, feel free to contact one of our live chat experts or contact your local HSS branch.