Gardeners are being urged to water their plants before 10am or after 6pm this week as temperatures soar across the UK. Experts at St. John's Garden Centres say timing is crucial to ensure plants absorb moisture effectively.
Best times to water
According to the experts, the ideal windows for watering are early morning before 10am and late evening after 6pm. They explained: "Morning before 10am is ideal. The soil can absorb the moisture before the heat of the day sets in, and any splashed leaves have time to dry, reducing the risk of disease."
If mornings are not possible, evening watering after 6pm is the next best option, but they warned to avoid soaking foliage overnight, which can encourage mildew. Morning watering is generally preferred as it allows soil to dry naturally throughout the day.
Watering during the middle of the day should be avoided, as most water evaporates before reaching the roots.
How often to water
Container plants and hanging baskets should be watered daily, especially if in direct sunlight. Newly planted specimens and seedlings need watering every one to two days until established. Mature plants and shrubs should be watered thoroughly once or twice a week to encourage deeper root growth.
The experts added: "The key is watering deeply and less frequently; this helps plants grow resilient roots that dig deep into the soil rather than relying on surface moisture."
Signs of thirsty plants
Plants needing water may show wilting or curling leaves, soil shrinking from container sides, pale or scorched foliage, and a dry, dusty soil surface. The experts noted: "Keep an eye on soil colour too. Dry soil tends to appear lighter and dustier, whereas moist soil is darker and clumps together when squeezed."
