Introduction

Knowing when to water your plants can be confusing, especially when they are dormant. Dormancy is a period of rest where plants conserve energy and prepare for future growth. During this time, their leaves may wilt, they may shed some or all of their leaves and, in some cases, their soil may also dry out. Watering during this period can be tricky, as you do not want to over- or under-water your plants. This article will give you some tips on how to know when to water your dormant plants.

Do Not Water According to a Schedule

The first rule of watering dormant plants is that you should not water them according to a set schedule. Instead, you need to water them based on their actual needs. Depending on the plant species, they may enter dormancy in different months of the year and for different lengths of time. Therefore, you should not rely on your calendar to tell you when to water. Instead, check your plants for signs of thirst.

Check Soil Moisture

The best way to know whether your dormant plants need water is to check the moisture level of the soil. You can do this by sticking your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle. If the soil is dry, then it is time to water. If it is still moist, then hold off on watering for a bit longer. If you do not want to get your hands dirty, you can use a moisture meter to test the soil's moisture level.

Do Not Over-Water

While it is important to keep your dormant plants hydrated, you do not want to over-water them. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. If the soil feels consistently wet or the plant shows signs of yellowing or wilting, then you may be over-watering. In this case, you should reduce the frequency of watering and make sure that there is proper drainage in the pot.

Water Deeply

When you do water your dormant plants, make sure that you water deeply. This means that you should pour water into the soil until it comes out of the drainage holes in the pot. This will ensure that the roots get enough water and that the soil is evenly moistened. You should also avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Conclusion

Knowing when to water your dormant plants is an important skill for any gardener. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your plants get the right amount of water during their rest period. Remember to check the soil moisture, avoid over-watering, and water deeply when necessary. With a little bit of attention, you can help your dormant plants perk up and thrive when their growing season returns.