Introduction

Watering plants is an essential part of gardening, but the timing of watering is equally important. We often wonder whether watering plants under the sun can have a harmful effect on them. This article aims to explore whether it is truly harmful to water plants in the sun.

The Science of Plant Watering

Plants generally need water for several reasons, including photosynthesis, growth, and cooling. When we water plants, the water is taken up through the roots and then transported to the leaves through a process called transpiration.

Now, when plants are watered in the sun, the water on the leaves can lead to scorching, as sunlight can focus on the water droplets and cause a heating effect. This can also lead to the formation of fungi such as powdery mildew, which can further harm the plant.

When to Water Plants

The best time to water plants is in the morning before the sunlight is too harsh. This ensures that the plants have sufficient water throughout the day and also allows the excess water to evaporate before the sun reaches its peak. The evening can also be a suitable time to water plants, but be sure that the leaves have plenty of time to dry before the nighttime dew settles in.

What happens when plants are watered in the sun?

When plants are watered under direct sunlight, the water droplets on the leaves can act as magnifying glasses and focus the sun's rays onto the plant's leaves, causing it to burn. Watering plants under the sun can also result in water usage inefficiency as much of the water may evaporate before it can be absorbed by the plant from the soil.

What if Plants need Watering While the Sun is High?

If plants require immediate watering while the sun is high, you can still water them without harming them by using a light mist spray of water. This will ensure that the plant gets water without damaging it. Alternatively, you can move the potted plants to an area that is partly shaded, and water them there.

Conclusion

Watering plants is crucial for their growth and survival, but it is also essential to ensure the timing of watering appropriate. Watering plants under the sun can be harmful, but that does not mean that you cannot water plants while the sun is high. Using a light mist spray or moving the potted plants to a partly shaded area can help prevent damage. By understanding the best practices for watering plants, you can ensure that your plants not only look great but also stay healthy and thriving.