Knowing when to water your new plants is important to ensure that your hard work and money don’t go to waste.  Established plants that are in the ground need to be watered differently than plants in a pot, and of course the type of plant also makes a difference in the amount of water needed to survive.  So here is a quick guide on when to water your plants.

Potted Plants:

Potted plants tend to dry out more quickly than plants in the ground, especially in the summertime.  The time of day that you choose to water your plants is also important in their survival.  Early morning or late evening is the ideal time of day.  Early morning lets the plants hydrate for the heat ahead, and evening helps to replenish them after a long day of sunbathing.  Checking the soil in the pots will give you a good idea of when it is time to water.  Once the soil is dry all the way to the bottom, it is time to give them a good bath.  However, sometimes waiting until the soil is dry can be too late.  You also want to make sure the leaves are not shriveling, the stems are not limp, and the petals are not falling off.

If you do accidentally let your plants soil dry out completely, it is wise to let the entire pot soak in water for half an hour or so.  This will help the plant replenish and hydrate.  Here are some tips to help water  your outdoor potted plants:

-Use a glazed pot to help prevent evaporation.

-Place mulch or rocks on top of the soil to help slow moisture loss.

-Water plants in early morning or evening so that they sun will not cook off the moisture.

Garden Plants:

Similar to potted plants, you will know when to water plants in the ground by the soil.  You also do not need to water these plants as often as plants in a pot.  Here are few rules and tips when watering your garden:

-Focus on the roots.  The roots are where the plant needs the water, spray the hose there.

-Irrigation systems or automatic watering times are very helpful, just make sure if it rains, you aren’t over watering your plants.

-Use mulch.  Mulch reduces surface runoff and slows evaporation from the soil.

-Use the right tools.  The right type of hose matters.  A soaker hose or even a drip irrigation system will work better than a sprinkler.

Hopefully with these tips your outdoor living areas will stay vibrant and lush throughout the rest of this summer heat!

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