Introduction
Watering plants is one of the most important activities in gardening. It ensures that the plants receive the necessary amount of moisture to grow and stay healthy. However, it's essential to water plants at the right time to maximize its benefits. In this article, we will discuss when the best time to water plant is and why it matters.
Watering Plants in the Morning
One of the best times to water plants is early in the morning, preferably before 10 AM. This is because the temperature is cooler, and there is less wind, promoting better water absorption by the plants. It also allows the plants to absorb the water before the heat of the day evaporates it.
Moreover, watering plants in the morning gives them the necessary moisture to stay healthy throughout the day. The moisture on the leaves and petals also protects plants from harmful insects and diseases.
Watering Plants in the Evening
An alternative time to water plants is in the evening, preferably two hours before sunset. Similar to watering plants in the morning, the temperature is cooler, and the wind is less intense, promoting better water absorption by the plants. It also ensures that the plants have enough moisture to last the night.
However, damp leaves and petals can provide an ideal breeding ground for fungi and other diseases, especially during prolonged periods of high humidity. Thus, it's essential to avoid watering the plants' foliage, focusing the irrigation to the base of each plant.
Avoid Watering Plants in the Afternoon
Avoid watering plants during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10 AM and 4 PM. The combination of direct sunlight, heat, and wind can quickly evaporate the water, leading to plant drought. Additionally, damp leaves and petals under direct sunlight can lead to the burning of the foliage.
Watering plants during the afternoon can also lead to leaf scorch, where moisture droplets act as a magnifying glass, amplifying the sun's rays and the heat around the leaf tissue. This leads to brown or yellow leaves, burnt patches, and stunted growth.
Conclusion
When to water plants is almost as important as how much to water them. Watering plants in the morning or in the evening is the best time to maximize the plants' uptake of water, leading to healthy growth and development. Avoid watering plants during the hottest part of the day to prevent plant drought, burning foliage, and stunted growth. With proper care, the plants in your garden can thrive and provide a beautiful and healthy outdoor space.