When to Not Water Plants

Watering plants is an essential part of gardening. However, watering at the wrong time or in the wrong way can cause harm to the plants. In this article, we will discuss the circumstances where you should refrain from watering your plants to prevent them from dying or becoming unhealthy.

During Midday Heat

The scorching heat during the midday sun can evaporate the water before it has a chance to seep into the soil. Additionally, when the sun is at its highest point, it can burn the leaves of the plants, causing extensive harm to them. Therefore, it is recommended that you water your plants either early in the morning or late in the evening. Doing so would help the plants absorb the water required for their necessary functions.

When the Soil is Wet

Waterlogged plants can cause the roots to rot and smell. This happens when plants absorb more water than they need or when the soil does not drain the excess water. Hence, over-watering can lead to damage or death of plants. One way to check if the soil is sufficiently dry is to plunge your finger into it up to your knuckle. If the soil clumps to your finger, it still has a good amount of moisture. However, if the soil feels dry or crumbly, it's time to water the plants.

In the Ramp-Up to Winter

When winter is on the way, the temperature begins to drop, and the days become shorter. This time of the year, the plant's growth starts to decrease. Consequently, their need for water also decreases. Overwatering during this period can lead to water accumulation, which can harm the plants' roots. Also, with the temperature heading to freezing, water can freeze on the plants, killing them. Therefore, it is prudent to check the plants' moisture levels using a hydrometer and water only when necessary.

When Fertilizing the Plants

Fertilized plants can become damaged when irrigated. During fertilization, most plants become more sensitive to excess water in their soil. Watering them when the soil is still wet can amplify the problem by drowning the plants in too much water, leading to complications such as root rot. During fertilization, it is best to abstain from watering for at least 24 hours before and after the process for the plant to absorb the nutrients naturally.

When It's Been Raining

One of the primary reasons plants require irrigation is when the soil has dried-up water content. Still, when there is rainfall, the ground is already soaked, and additional watering can lead to waterlogging. Ironically, overwatering can lead to poor drainage, resulting in root rot and fungus infestation. Hence, when there is sufficient rain, hold off watering until the soil has had time to dry out.

The Bottom Line

Watering is an essential part of plant care, yet it can cause more harm than good at times. Over-watering can lead to root rot, while watering at the wrong time can lead to severe damage to the plants. It is, therefore, essential to water plants appropriately and conserve water whenever possible. Always water your plants early in the morning or late in the afternoon, check for dryness in the soil before watering, and water them only when they require water. Follow these measures to ensure the health and longevity of your plants.