Must You Water After Planting in Later Afternoon

Planting is a crucial task when it comes to maintaining a garden. The aftermath of planting, such as watering, fertilizing and pruning, is equally important. Planting at different times of the day has different implications. One of the common practices is planting in the later afternoon. However, the question that arises is whether you should water your plants after planting in the later afternoon. Here, we shall discuss in detail whether you should water after planting in later afternoon.

Planting in the later afternoon

Planting in the later afternoon is a popular practice, especially during summers. It provides ample time for the roots to acclimatize to their new environment before the sun comes out the next day. The temperature drops relatively slowly during the evening and night, providing a conducive environment for the plants to grow.

Watering after Planting

It is a common practice to water your plants immediately after planting, irrespective of the time of day. This helps in settling the plant in its new environment and eliminating any air pockets that might have formed while planting. However, whether you water the plant after planting in the later afternoon may depend on various factors:

Consider Soil Moisture Content

Before watering, consider the soil's moisture content. If the soil is already moist, watering may not be necessary. Check the soil by pressing your finger down to determine whether it is moist or dry.

Temperature and Plant Type

High temperatures can cause plants to wilt, and watering in the afternoon may help to cool them down. However, some plants do not cope well with wet foliage under high temperatures, and it can result in fungal or bacterial diseases. If you are unsure if it is safe, it is better to avoid watering during the afternoon.

Established Plants

Established plants with mature root systems need less water than newly planted ones. Therefore, watering immediately after planting may not be necessary for such plants. However, if the plants are in severe need of watering, do not hesitate to water them, irrespective of the time of day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you need to water your plants immediately after planting in the later afternoon depends on the soil's moisture content and the plant type. Water your plants only when necessary and check the soil's moisture content before watering. With careful consideration, your plants will thrive in their new environment irrespective of the time of day.