Introduction

Plants require water to survive, and it's essential to know how much water different species require. According to plant experts, some plants prefer to be watered deep less frequently. The question is, why do these plants want water deep less frequently, and what are the benefits of deep watering? Let's explore this topic in-depth.

Reasons why some plants want water deep less frequently

There are several reasons why some plants prefer deep watering less frequently. First, watering deeply encourages deeper root growth. As plants grow, their roots need to access deeper soil layers where water and more nutrients are available. When the soil surface is moist, the roots remain there, and this hinders their growth downwards. However, when watered deeply, the roots grow towards the bottom of the plant pot or soil layers, helping them source water and nutrients from deeper layers that don't dry up easily.

Second, deep watering helps plants become more drought-resistant. When surface watering is done, the water tends to evaporate quickly, meaning the surface soil layer dries up fast. This makes plants more vulnerable to drought damage. Conversely, when deep watering is done, it penetrates deeper into the soil, sustaining plants for longer periods. Additionally, the deep watering system enables water to trickle to the bottom roots, which acts as a reserve essential for the plant's survival during the drought season.

Third, deep watering promotes healthy and robust plant growth. Shallow watering might cause plants to grow weaker. They may become more susceptible to disease and fungal attacks, limiting their ability to produce robust growth. However, if plants are watered deeply, they develop stronger stems, and they become more resistant to disease and pests. Overall deep watering ensures that plants thrive in adverse weather conditions.

Best practices for deep watering plants

If you want to attain the benefits of deep watering, it's best to water only when necessary. Overwatering can cause more harm than good. Before watering again, check the soil’s moisture levels, either through touch or an irrigation sensor. Additionally, it’s essential to note that different species require different watering needs. For instance, cacti or succulents don't require as much water as ferns or palms.

Water sufficiently but not excessively. The rule of thumb is to water up to the plant's root zone depth, that is, the soil layer where the plant roots are present. This could range between 4-6 inches depending on the plant species. If questionable about the right amount of water, it's best to water shallowly but repeat a few times to ensure the roots get their fill.

Lastly, it's vital to bear in mind the type of soil you have when watering. Clay soil tends to retain moisture, and it’s best to water less frequently, while sandy soil dries up fast, requiring more water.

Conclusion

Watering plants adequately is crucial in their growth and survival. While some plants prefer deep watering less frequently, it's crucial to understand that different species vary in their watering requirements. However, deep watering has numerous benefits, including deeper root growth, drought resistance, and promotes healthy plant growth. To utilize deep watering best, it’s best to go slowly, water when necessary, and water sufficiently, but not excessively.