Ideal time to water plants??

[Emma Taylor]

Curious—what’s the best time to water plants to keep them thriving without wasting water? I’ve got a mix of native plants, veggies, and potted plants, so I want to get the most out of every drop, especially with our dry climate.

Do you water early in the morning, late afternoon, or have another method that works well? I’d love to hear what’s worked for others!

[Maisie Blevins]

Hi there, great question! Timing your watering is key to keeping your plants thriving while being water-efficient, especially in a dry climate like ours.

Generally, early morning is the best time to water. This allows the water to soak deeply into the soil before the heat of the day causes evaporation. Plus, the leaves have time to dry before evening, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Here’s how I approach watering different types of plants in my garden:

1. Native plants – These are usually drought-tolerant, so I water them less frequently but deeply when needed. Morning watering works best, especially during extended dry spells.

2. Veggies – Veggies need consistent moisture, so I water them early in the morning, and if the day has been particularly hot, a light top-up in the late afternoon helps prevent stress.

3. Potted plants – Potted plants can dry out quickly, so I water them early in the morning. On very hot days, I check them again in the late afternoon to ensure they’re not drying out too much. Mulching the top of the soil in pots helps retain moisture too.

Another tip: If mornings aren’t always an option, late afternoon works, but avoid watering too late in the evening to prevent overnight moisture on the leaves.

Hope this helps!

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