Here are a few key considerations.
Otherwise, watering in the early morning hours is ideal.
In the late afternoon or early evening is second best.
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Wilting can also be a sign of overwatering.
Checking the soil moisture is the best way to decide whether you should water.
How you water your plantsis just as important as watering often enough.
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Water needs to reach the roots, so it is crucial to water deeply.
Target the base of the plant and apply water slowly.
You want to avoid wet leaves for most outdoor plants since this can lead to fungal problems.
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Watering more often supports the nutrient uptake needed to produce a healthy harvest.
Checking soil moisture is a much more reliable indicator than going only by the one inch rule.
Insert your index finger about an inch deep into the soil.
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If it’s dry, water until it feels moist.
During a heat wave, a vegetable garden might require daily watering.
Another exception to the one inch rule is moisture needed for vegetable seeds.
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Even seeds that need light to germinate will not produce a plant if they are allowed to dry out.
Young seedlings also require more frequent watering than established plants.
Insufficient water leads to stunted growth and poor crops, as well as higher susceptibility to pests and diseases.
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Herbs
Water requirements for herbs depend on the key in of herb.
Most herbs are fairly drought tolerant and require infrequent to no watering but there are exceptions.
If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water.
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Water deeply and slowly until water runs out of the drainage holes.
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Plants in hanging baskets are another step up in terms of watering needs.
Count on having to water them at least daily and even twice a day in hot weather.
The frequency of watering depends on the size of the raised bed.
The smaller the raised bed, the more frequently water is needed.
you’re gonna wanna adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
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Tip
Watering and mulching can work synergistically to help retain soil moisture.
Mulching around your plants also keeps the soil cool, and suppresses weeds that compete with plants for water.
Fruit trees and fruit-bearing shrubs have different watering needs than landscape trees.
Water herbaceous perennials at least twice a week in the absence of rain.
In the second growing season, water it at least once every two weeks in the absence of rain.
Desiccating winter winds can dry out the soil even more, especially if there is no snow cover.
This can lead to root damage and plant death.
All newly planted trees are also susceptible to winter drought injury.
Do not water when the soil is frozen, as it wont absorb water.
Winter Watering for Trees, Shrubs.
Fall and Winter Watering.
Colorado State University Extension.
