Watering

Water is important for more than just the growth of your plants in your garden

Plants require water to transport nutrients and sugars from the soil to the plants. All plants will at some point suffer from either water scarcity or drought, which can be fatal in some cases or severely slow plant growth. Drought-stricken plants may be left vulnerable to secondary infection by pests or pathogens as a result of prolonged drought. That's why it is so important to have a good water plan in your garden.

The different ways to water your garden properly

Watering the garden can be done in many different ways and is not the same in any garden! What works for you depends on how big your garden is, what's growing in it and how much time you have. The three most common ways to water your garden are below:

1.Soaker hoses

Soaker hoses are excellent for watering trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables, because they are permeable and release water slowly, allowing you to water even deep roots. You can water a tree by encircling it with a soaker hose and letting it run for up to an hour or longer, until water has penetrated 6 to 10 inches of soil. Or you can run it along flower or vegetable beds and water in the early morning or early evening.

2. Watering cans

A watering can is one of the most crucial gardening tools you need. Despite its simplicity, there are various types, and you will need one that is ideal for watering what you want and where. Keep in mind that carrying a water can can be heavy and that a watering can rose might be handy when you want to water your vegetable seeds but maybe not for your hanging baskets.

3. Water butts

It is better for your lawn care and plants, as well as the environment, to collect and use rainwater that has fallen on your roof by installing a water butt. You can also use the water to clean cars and windows, in addition to washing them. A lid on a water butt will avoid accumulated leaves or small animals from accidentally drowning. You can link up two or more water butts if you want to collect more water than they can hold.

Everyday watering tips for your garden

When you are watering your plants in the garden, there are many little things you can do to make better use of water in your garden, for example:

• use a watering can instead of a hose
• if you do use a hose, use a trigger to control the flow and the amount of time
• install a water butt, so you can make the best use of rain water and safe on expensive tap water
• avoid using a watering can on rose trees, except on seedlings, because much of the water does not reach the roots where it’s needed
• water early in the morning or at night so that water doesn't evaporate in the heat of the day before it can reach the roots
• Rather water fewer times and heavy then often and a little, watering too often can keep roots shallow and weaken plants
• weed regularly to make sure that watering helps plants and weeds don't take up much needed water, space and nutrients meant for your plants
• prioritise young plants and seedlings - more established plants have deeper roots and will survive longer periods without water
• don't waste water on your garden paths, terrace and patio.

Everything you need to water your garden at Horticentre in Overton

At Horticentre we have a passion for gardens and we like to help you find the best solution for your personal situation. Whether you have a big garden with lots of vegetables, flowers, perennials or you'll plant your own seed potatoes every year. Even if you just have a small balcony or garden or looking for a solution when you're gone for a holiday. Drop by in our garden center or contact us and we'll find the best way for you, to keep your garden hydrated!