Why Let Water Stand Before Watering Plants

Watering plants may seem like a straightforward task, but did you know that a simple step of letting water stand before watering your plants can make a significant difference in their growth and survival? Here are some reasons why you should always let water stand before watering your plants:

Chlorine and Chloramine in Tap Water

Most of us use tap water to water our plants, but little did we know that tap water contains chlorine and chloramine, which are harmful to plants. These chemicals are added to tap water to kill harmful bacteria and algae. However, these chemicals can also damage beneficial microbes and fungi present in the soil, leading to poor plant growth and reduced yield. Therefore, it is essential to let tap water stand for a few hours before watering plants so that chlorine and chloramine can evaporate and make the water safe for your plants.

Temperature Adjustment

Another reason to let water stand before watering plants is to adjust its temperature. Plants prefer water at room temperature, and if you water them with cold water, it can shock them, leading to wilting or yellowing of leaves. Similarly, if you water them with hot water, it can scorch their roots or damage their foliage. Therefore, it is essential to let water stand for a few hours to reach room temperature before watering your plants.

Salt Buildup Prevention

When we water plants, we also add nutrients through fertilizers. However, over time, these nutrients can accumulate in the soil and form salt buildup. Salt buildup can damage the roots by restricting their ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. By letting water stand before watering plants, we can flush out the accumulated salts and prevent salt buildup. This will ensure that the nutrients are evenly distributed in the soil and the plants get the required nutrients for their growth.

Better Water Absorption

Plants absorb water through their roots, and if the soil is dry or compacted, it can hinder their water absorption ability. By letting water stand before watering plants, we can moisten the soil and make it easier for the roots to absorb water. This will ensure that the plants get the required water for their growth, and their roots remain healthy and strong.

Conclusion

Water is a crucial resource for plant growth, and it is essential to ensure that plants get the right kind of water for their optimal growth and survival. By letting water stand before watering plants, we can ensure that the water is safe, at the right temperature, free from accumulated salts, and easy for plants to absorb. This simple step can make a significant difference in the health and productivity of your plants.