Every gardener should do this before 10 a.m. – it’s crucial for your plants
What you need to do in the garden every day (photo: Magnific)
When the weather is hot and temperatures reach their peak, your garden needs extra attention. During this period, it is worth avoiding pruning plants and focusing on one essential task.
Daily Express explains what gardeners should do every day before 10 a.m.
The perfect time to water
Watering is crucial all year round, but in summer, it becomes a matter of survival. This is especially true for plants in pots and containers, which dry out much faster than those growing in the ground. According to experts, there are only two safe times of day to water your garden.
One of the most common questions gardeners have is when exactly to reach for the hose or watering can. Experts give a clear answer: early morning or late evening.
Morning before 10 a.m.
This is the best and safest time. Before the midday heat arrives, the soil has enough time to fully absorb the moisture. In addition, water droplets on the leaves have time to dry, significantly reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Evening after 6 p.m.
If you were unable to water the garden in the morning, evening is a great alternative. The main rule is to avoid excessively wetting the leaves overnight, as this can encourage mold growth.
It is strongly recommended not to water the garden in the middle of the day, when the sun is most intense. Much of the water will simply evaporate before it reaches the root system.
How often should you water?
How often you need to water depends directly on the type of planting and the age of the plant:
- Plants in containers and hanging baskets need daily watering, especially if they are exposed to direct sunlight.
- New seedlings should be watered every one or two days until they become well established.
- Mature plants and shrubs generally need thorough watering once or twice a week.
The secret to success is to water less frequently but very thoroughly. This encourages plants to develop strong root systems that grow deeper into the soil in search of moisture rather than relying only on a wet surface layer.
How to tell when a plant needs water
Your green plants will give you signs when they are thirsty. The main symptoms include wilted or curled leaves, as well as soil pulling away from the sides of the pot. Other warning signs include pale or scorched-looking leaves.
You should also pay attention to the color of the soil. Dry soil usually looks lighter and dusty, while moist soil has a dark, rich color and easily sticks together when squeezed in your hand.
