With warmer weather just around the corner, garden plants will need to be watered in order to thrive all summer long. During hot weather, the garden needs to be watered up to two times per day, depending on the plant and location of them.
However, an expert has explained why you should never water the garden at a particular time of day and when exactly to do so. Elise Harlock, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, said: “Watering during the hottest part of the day is one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make. Not only does it lead to wasted water, but it can also stress your plants and even cause damage.”
According to the expert, watering in direct sunlight causes rapid evaporation, meaning plants don’t end up getting the moisture they need.
She added: “When the sun is at its peak, much of the water you apply will evaporate before it ever reaches the roots.
“You might think you’re giving your plants a good drink, but in reality, most of that water is disappearing into thin air.”
If the leaves get wet when the sun is blazing, it can lead to faster dehydration due to the plant focusing more on dealing with heat stress rather than absorbing the water properly.
To ensure plants get the full benefit of watering, the flower expert recommended watering at specific times of the day.
She explained: “The best time to water is early in the morning, before 10am. This allows moisture to penetrate the soil and reach the roots before the sun gets too strong.”
If you can’t water in the morning, late afternoon or early evening is the next best option, but you must be careful.
Make sure not to water too late, as damp foliage overnight can encourage fungal growth and attract pests.
Elise continued: “The key is deep, infrequent watering. Rather than giving plants a quick sprinkle every day, soak the soil thoroughly a few times a week.
“This encourages deeper root growth, making plants more resilient to heat and drought. Always aim for the roots, not the leaves.
“This ensures the water gets where it’s needed and reduces the risk of disease. Being mindful of when and how you water can make a huge difference.
“With just a few simple adjustments, your garden will thrive all season long.”
