How to Water a Garden: Deep Watering Promotes Healthy Roots

One of the most typical concerns I get from new garden enthusiasts is "How much water does my garden require?" my company Sadly, the answer of approximately one inch per week leaves a lot of them with the "deer-in-headlights" look, which informs me that I have some explaining to do. It's not their fault actually. You see, garden enthusiasts don't constantly talk in common English. One inch weekly describes one inch of rain a week, but even gardeners aren't always sure just how much that is. Fortunately, there is a simpler method to inform if your garden has enough water.

Examine the soil

I understand it sounds silly, but it truly is the most reputable way to inform if your garden needs water. However, don't depend on looks alone, as it can be tricking. What looks like a considerable rain to you may only damp the surface area of the soil. Stick your finger into the soil to a depth of at least one inch. If the soil feels dry, you garden requirements to be watered.

Water deeply

Water your garden until the soil is filled to the root level of the plants. This encourages roots to form deep in the soil. Light watering causes roots to form near the surface area of the soil and constructs their reliance on you for additional watering as quickly as the leading few inches end up being dry. Plants with deep roots are better able to withstand periods of dry spell and have a stronger support group.

Watering in the morning

Water your garden in the morning when air is generally still and cool. If morning watering is not practical, water your garden once temperature levels drop in late afternoon or evening.

Water the soil, not the plants


Apply water directly to the soil whenever possible. When you water the foliage, much of the water evaporates prior to it reaches the soil. When you are using water-soluble fertilizer at the very same time, the exception to this guideline is.

Inspect your soil often

A lot of plants love deep watering once a week, but throughout hot, dry spells, or throughout periods of active growth or fruiting, you might need to water more typically. Plants grown in raised containers or beds may need daily watering.
Water is vital to healthy plant growth. Developing a regular routine and checking your garden frequently prevents the tension from lack of water. Some plants, such as tomatoes, are heavy feeders and may need more regular watering than plants such as green beans or lettuce.


I know it sounds silly, but it really is the most trustworthy method to inform if your garden needs water. If the soil feels dry, you garden requirements to be watered.

Water your garden up until the soil is filled to the root level of the plants. If early morning watering is not hassle-free, water your garden once temperature levels drop in late afternoon or night. When you water the foliage, much of the water evaporates prior to it reaches the soil.

Posted January 16, 2017 12:30