Do Not Water the Plant After Pruning: True or False?

As a plant owner or gardener, you might have heard the advice "do not water the plant after pruning." But is it true or false? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this recommendation and whether or not it holds any truth.

The Reasoning Behind the Advice

The advice to not water the plant after pruning is often given because pruning can damage the roots of the plant. When the roots are damaged, the plant becomes more susceptible to root rot, which is caused by overwatering. Therefore, it is advised to wait a few days after pruning before watering the plant again to allow the roots to heal and recover.

The Truth About Watering After Pruning

While it is true that pruning can damage the roots of the plant, the advice to not water the plant after pruning is not always necessary. It depends on the type of plant and the extent of pruning that was done.

For example, if you have pruned a large amount of foliage from a plant, it may be a good idea to avoid watering the plant for a few days to help it recover. On the other hand, if you have only trimmed a few leaves or stems, watering the plant immediately afterwards is unlikely to harm it.

Additionally, some types of plants are more resilient and can withstand pruning and watering at the same time. For example, succulents and cacti are known to be able to handle pruning and watering simultaneously without any adverse effects.

How to Care for Your Plant After Pruning

If you want to give your plant the best chance of recovery after pruning, there are a few steps you can take:

Use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent damaging the plant further.

Remove all dead or diseased parts of the plant to prevent the spread of infection.

Water the plant according to its specific needs, rather than following a set schedule.

Provide the plant with proper light, temperature, and humidity conditions to help it recover.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the advice to not water the plant after pruning is not always true. It depends on the type of plant and the extent of pruning that was done. While it is important to avoid overwatering plants after pruning, it is also important to make sure they receive the right amount of water according to their specific needs. By following the proper care instructions, you can help your plant recover from pruning and thrive for years to come.