Watering Technique
technique
Watering the Right Way
Master the single skill that saves more new-gardener plants than any other.
Overwatering and underwatering are the top reasons beginner plants struggle. Here is how to get it right.
Check first: Push a finger 1-2 inches into the soil. Water only if it feels dry at that depth.
Deep and infrequent: A thorough soak that reaches the roots beats frequent shallow sprinkles, which encourage weak surface roots.
Timing: Water in the early morning so leaves dry through the day and less moisture is lost to evaporation.
At the base: Direct water to the soil, not the foliage, to reduce fungal disease.
