In the hottest days, watering the plants may seem like a simple task, but a seemingly harmless gesture can compromise the health of your garden. Often the cause of weakening or even the death of plants is not in the lack of nutrients, but in the form and the moment they are watered.
According to Meteored Mexico, the best time to water for hot weather is early in the morning, before the sun reaches its highest point. This period allows water to reach the roots without evaporating rapidly, which avoids waste and reduces the risk of leaf burns caused by the expansion effect that water drops can have under heavy sunlight.
The common mistake of watering in the middle of the day
The same source warns that watering in the middle of the day is one of the most frequent errors. When irrigation is done in the most sun exposure hours, much of the water evaporates before reaching the root system of the plant. This habit can also cause thermal shocks and damage the foliage, leading to dry appearance that is sometimes confused with lack of water.
Another important aspect to take into account is the nightly moisture. Watering at night is not advised, but should be done with caution, especially in high moisture environments. Under these conditions, the permanence of water in the leaves for long periods favors the appearance of fungi, something particularly problematic in sensitive plants.
In addition to the time of day, the way watering is applied also influences the state of plants. As the same source explained, the water should be placed directly at the base of the plant without wet leaves or flowers. This care significantly reduces the risk of disease and helps to direct hydration to the roots where it is really needed.
Each plant has its needs
Watering all plants in the same way is another recurring error. Each species has different needs and factors such as soil type, vessel material and sun exposure changes the frequency and amount of water required. For example, plants like succulents resist long periods without watering, while others, such as basil, require daily attention.
Continuous observation, according to the publication mentioned above, is considered essential. Dry soil, withered leaves or color loss may indicate water need. On the other hand, soft leaves and soaked soil can reveal excess watering. Knowing how to interpret these signs is critical to maintaining the right balance.
Another element to consider is the soil type. Clay soils tend to retain more water while sandy drain quickly. This factor directly influences the number of times that should water each plant. Also the vessels in clay lose moisture faster than plastic ones, due to their porosity.
Alternative and sustainable methods
Meteored Mexico suggests techniques such as immersion irrigation, especially effective in vase plants. This method is to dive the vase in a container with water for a few minutes, allowing the plant to absorb the liquid from the base, gradually and controlled.
For those who have a larger garden, gout watering is an effective solution. This system allows you to distribute water slowly, avoiding waste and ensuring that each plant receives the required amount. It is particularly useful during the highest heat periods, when a watering too fast may not be effective.
With regard to the water source, sustainability should also be considered. Watering with drinking water is not the only option. Rainwater collection is a simple and effective practice. A clean container placed in the garden or the adaptation of calers may allow water to accumulate safely for later use.
Observe, understand and adjust
According to the same source, watering correctly does not depend only on fixed rules, but on the ability to observe and adapt care to the specific conditions of each plant and environment.
A well-watered plant has firm leaves and bright colors. Already a plant with excess water can show signs of rotting, fallen leaves and even an unpleasant odor in the soil.
Although errors are common, especially in summer, the most important thing is to be aware and learn from experience.
Nature often offers new opportunities to correct and improve plant care. As mentioned, each garden has its own pace, and watering well is an essential part of maintaining that balance.
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