Optimal Moment for Avoiding Plant Hydration, Suggested by Horticulture Professionals

Optimal Plant Watering Avoidance Period, Suggested by Horticulture Professionals

Plants necessitate water for survival, and figuring out the optimal watering schedule is crucial for their thriving. The time you water plants significantly influences their ability to absorb water effectively. Yet, it's equally important to recognize when not to water plants, most notably to prevent root rot. To shed light on the worst times and seasons to water plants, we consulted various gardening experts.

Andr Porwol, a gardening and landscape professional, and the founder of Sapcote Garden Centre
Ariel Vazquez, a TeachMe.To gardening expert and the proprietor of Thyme & Sage Creations LLC.
Nicole Johnsey Burke, the founder and CEO of Gardenary Inc. and the author of Kitchen Garden Revival, Leaves, Roots & Fruit

Worst Time to Water Outdoor Plants

The least favorable time to water outdoor plants is during the midday in hot and sunny conditions. According to Andr Porwol, the founder of Sapcote Garden Centre, during this time, the heat and sunlight quickly cause water to evaporate, reducing the water that reaches the plant's roots. Additionally, water droplets on leaves can function as magnifying glasses, resulting in leaf burn.

The least desirable season to water outdoor plants is during the frigid winter weather when temperatures can drop below freezing. Porwol emphasizes that watering during this time may lead to water freezing around the roots or on leaves, causing damage to the plant. Moreover, many plants enter a dormant state during winter, necessitating less water.

Worst Time to Water Indoor Plants

Time of day or season when watering indoor plants is less crucial. Generally, it is advisable to avoid watering indoor plants in the evenings when sunlight is non-existent. As with outdoor plants, houseplants do not require as much water in winter. "Indoor environments are generally climate-controlled," says Ariel Vazquez, a TeachMe.To gardening expert. "In winter, reduced light levels and cooler indoor temperatures – depending on heating habits – slow plant growth, reducing water needs," she says. Overwatering in winter can lead to waterlogging, root rot, and fungal issues in indoor plants.

Tips for Watering Plants Correctly

Consider these tips for effectively watering your plants.

Water at the Correct Time

Early morning is usually the best time to water plants as the temperatures tend to be cooler. "This gives plants the opportunity to absorb water before the heat of the day evaporates and also ensures foliage has time to dry," says Porwol.

Water Deeply and Infrequently

Instead of watering frequently, Porwol advises providing plants with a deep watering session. This encourages the plant's roots to grow deeper, making them more drought-resistant. "Shallow or frequent watering promotes weak and surface-level roots," he warns.

Check Soil Moisture Before Watering

Instead of watering on a schedule, experts recommend checking the soil's moisture level prior to watering. "Stick your index finger in the soil to check for moisture," says Nicole Johnsey Burke, founder and CEO of Gardenary Inc. "Only water if the soil feels dry down to your second knuckle."

Remove Trays Under Houseplants When Watering

Potted plants placed on a saucer or tray should have the excess water completely drained out through the drainage hole prior to returning the plants to their drip trays or saucers. Waterlogging can occur if plants are left sitting in excess water.

Use the Proper Watering Tools

Investing in a water wand for the end of your hose is recommended for outdoor plants, according to Burke. This tool allows for the correct amount of water to be delivered to the base of the plants. "Set your spray attachment to the softest setting possible to mimic gentle rain," she suggests.

When in doubt, use a watering can for smaller gardens. Simply hold the plant's leaves away from the spout and water as close to the soil as possible, advises Burke.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what point of the day do plants take up the most water? Plants take up the most water during the morning hours. As Vazquez explains, "Lower morning temperatures minimize evaporation, enabling more water to seep into the soil and reach the roots." Furthermore, plants store water from the morning for later photosynthesis and to combat midday heat stress.
Is it detrimental to water plants during midday? Watering plants during midday is something to avoid. According to Vazquez, "It's inefficient with water, as most of it evaporates before reaching the roots." Also, the difference in temperature between cool water and hot soil can upset plants, possibly causing more stress.
What kind of water is ideal for watering plants? Rainwater is the ideal water, even for indoor plants. According to Burke, "It includes dissolved minerals and has not been treated with chlorine or any other additives that could harm your plants." Filtered water is also a suitable option, as it removes contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals that could be harmful to sensitive plants.
How can you tell if you've overwatered or underwatered a plant? Symptoms of overwatering include yellow, wilting, or rotting leaves and the presence of insects like ants in the soil, drawn by the moisture. Vasquez notes that signs of underwatering include wilted leaves or leaves with brown spots, and the soil surface will be dry and cracked, possibly even pulling away from the edge of the pot or container.
Martha Stewart, a renowned expert in gardening and homekeeping, emphasizes the importance of proper watering in maintaining healthy houseplants. She suggests using filtered or distilled water to avoid salt buildup and mineral damage to indoor plants.
When it comes to container garden ideas, both Flower Gardens and Vegetable Garden Ideas benefit from deep watering. Johnsey Burke, the author of Kitchen Garden Revival, Leaves, Roots & Fruit, suggests using a dampened cloth to water potted plants to avoid disturbing the soil and promote better water absorption.
For gardening enthusiasts looking for inspiration, Porwol, Vazquez, and Johnsey Burke all recommend exploring various online resources and books by experts like Martha Stewart for innovative Container Garden Ideas and ways to enhance both Flower Gardens and Vegetable Garden Ideas.