Top tips for ensuring that your plants are getting the right amount of water

t may sound obvious, but watering plants correctly is crucial to their healthy growth. However, it’s also something that can be difficult to get right. Plants in containers are particularly sensitive and need the right amount of water to prevent them drying out or becoming waterlogged.

Therefore, it’s important to use water responsibly – and not just to ensure healthy plant growth. Water is a precious resource, and its conservation is a crucial part of taking care of the environment, particularly with rising concerns around climate change.

Follow nature’s example

One of the top tips for planet friendly gardening is to water the way that nature intended. The RHS suggests a range of ways to do this, for example using water butts rather than hosepipes or watering cans. However, while this is a great strategy for the individual gardener, it’s not always a viable approach for community gardening groups populated by time-pressed volunteers or budget-constrained organisations such as local authorities. So what are the key factors that people should bear in mind when watering plants?

1. When to water

Many people know that it’s best to avoid watering plants in the hottest part of the day as the water evaporates more quickly. As a result, many people choose to water their gardens at night when it’s cooler. However, the best time to water plants is early in the morning because this is when they start to use water. Of course, Amberol’s self-watering planters overcome the question of when to water. As long as they are topped up once (or sometimes twice a week in hotter weather), plants can access water when they need it, ensuring healthier growth.

2. How often to water

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The frequency will depend on a whole range of factors: what kind of plant it is, where it’s located, what matter it’s planted in and weather variations - from wind to rain to ambient temperatures. Plants in containers generally need watering more frequently as they dry out more quickly. However, as Amberol customers have discovered, many self-watering planters need only be watered once a week irrespective of these factors.

3. What to look out for

It’s usually quite easy to spot the signs if a plant isn’t getting enough moisture. If you are unsure, these are some of the indications that your plants aren’t getting enough water:

• Changes in leaves - they look dull, and either darker or paler than usual. They may also start to curl or angle downwards.
• Flowering or foliage growth is less than usual.
• Plants may also start to wilt – this can also be a sign that they are being overwatered.

4. Top tips for effective watering

• Remember that certain plants may be more sensitive to getting the right amount of water. These include new plants and herbaceous perennials.
• It may be advisable to choose drought resistant plants if you think regular watering may prove problematic.
• Planting between autumn and spring allows new plants to establish healthy roots before drier conditions set in, making them sturdier and less susceptible to underwatering.
• Using self-watering planters overcomes many of these problems and considerations as plants access water and nutrients as and when needed.

How do self-watering planters work?

Amberol’s self-watering planters have a unique Aquafeed™ system and a water reservoir under the compost to prevent evaporation. The Aquafeed system is comprised of a series of high capacity capillary wicks that ‘suck’ up water and disperse moisture and nutrients via high performance matting. This means that plants can access moisture as required ensuring optimal growth. Furthermore, overflow holes located just above the matting ensure that plants cannot be over watered. Each planter also has ample room for good root growth – essential for plants to thrive.

How can we help resolve your watering issues?

If you are pressed for time or funds to maintain your containers. Amberol’s self-watering planters are an ideal solution. Call 01773 830 930 or email sales@amberol.co.uk for more information or to book a no-obligation virtual demo.