Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to the plant world, gardening during the summer can be extremely rewarding, especially when it’s done right.
While hot weather can make watering plants a little tricky, it’s possible to have some fun in the sun with your plants while ensuring they’re getting the care they need. We have the deets on one of the most common mistakes to avoid when watering plants in the sun.
Without further ado, let’s dig in.
Remember that leaves are sensitive
Embed from Getty ImagesThere are few plants that need completely direct sun, so remember to put your plants in a spot where there will be some shade during the day to avoid too much heat, which can burn the plant’s leaves. No one wants a crispy plant!
Plan according to each plant’s needs
Just like pets and children, no one plant is the same as another. Every plant you bring into your garden will need specialized care, so make sure to do your research.
Some plants have extra sensitive leaves that freak out if there’s even a little too much sunlight while others will droop if they don’t get a good dose of vitamin D under the sun’s rays.
It can be fun to learn about each plant and see how they thrive when their needs are met.
Try to water plants strategically
Most people have the basic concept of watering plants down, but as they grow as gardeners, it becomes key to learn beyond the basics. This includes watering strategically to help plants instead of harming them.
You should never water directly on top of a plant in hot weather because each water droplet that gets on the leaves puts them at risk for a host of things, including fungal infection, root rot, and, you guessed it, sunburnt leaves.
Incorrect watering can kill a plant
Embed from Getty ImagesWater droplets can be like magnifying glasses when left on leaves, meaning that when we splash water all over the plant while watering, we are causing a higher chance for our plants to get scorched.
Yellowing, browning and/or crispy leaves are signs that your plant is not fairing well in the sun, and your watering may be the culprit.
Water closer to the ground
The key is to water plants lower.
Whether it’s closer to the ground for an outdoor plant rooted in the soil, or it’s watering from the bottom if it’s a potted plant, commonly referred to as “bottom watering,” it’s time to water away from the leaves.
The most important place for water to go is to the roots with no need to get any water on the leaves at all. By watering directly to the source that needs it the most, plants — and their humans — will have a much easier time.
It’s okay if you get a little water on the leaves
Embed from Getty ImagesTry not to freak out if you get some droplets on your leaves, just try to wipe them down and, if you can, put a little cover over the leaves, so there’s not too much sun hitting them.
Remember, wet leaves aren’t necessarily an instant death sentence for your green queens.
Water early in the morning
Embed from Getty ImagesIf you’re really worried about your plants burning, it can work wonders to water them before it gets too hot in your area. That way, if water gets on your leaves, they’ll have time to dry naturally before the heat wave comes in.
Plus, you may just get one stunning look at the sun rising beside your plants.
Pests love stagnant water
Embed from Getty ImagesFungi look for moist areas to leave their spores, and if your leaves are wet for too long, they become the perfect place for deadly bacteria to form and infect your plant.
We recommend that you regularly inspect your plant’s leaves to reduce the chance of infestations.
Prune discolored leaves
Embed from Getty ImagesSometimes you’ll notice that just one leaf is yellowing or browning while the rest of the plant seems fine. It’s important to prune that sick leaf immediately to stop the spread of any disease it may have.
Try not to panic, as this happens to gardeners of all skill levels. Leaves go through their own stages and often need to be occasionally pruned.
With that said, if you see multiple leaves looking unwell, it can be a sign of a bigger issue.
Don’t water too much too quickly
Embed from Getty ImagesWhile it’s easiest and faster to get out the hose or watering can and shower your plants with lots of water all at once, it can be safer for your plants if you add a little bit at a time.
A big splash of water can cause more run-off and uneven water distribution. By adding a little at a time, you can check the soil to see if it’s over or under-saturated.
Have any other garden tips for hot days?
Is there anything we missed? If you have a hot-day watering tip to share, leave a comment below.
