Ten golden rules for watering

Garden care

Summer

To keep your plants from drooping in the summer, they need plenty of water. But how much and how often – and should you water from the top or bottom?

Watering of plants

Keep them evenly moist
Most plants need consistent moisture. However, light drying between waterings can promote root growth.

Water less often, but more thoroughly
Watering your flower beds once or twice a week is enough. It's better to water infrequently with a lot of water than to water often with just a little.

Water late in the evening or early in the morning
When you water the cooled soil in the evening or at night, less water evaporates compared to watering warm soil during the day. Also, the plants can absorb enough water before the heat of the next day.

Keep the leaves dry
Wet leaves are sick leaves. If the leaves stay wet overnight, it can lead to mold diseases. Leaves that get wet in the sun can develop burn marks (because water droplets act as a magnifying glass).

Give your plants the right amount of water
Watering as needed means that enough water reaches the roots. Too little water often only wets the top few centimeters of soil. Consistent moisture is especially important for edible plants until the crops are ready to harvest.

Give large amounts of water in several rounds
Water takes time to soak into the soil. Instead of having precious water run out of the bed unused, it's better to water several times in stages.

Water with a purpose, but spread it around
Always watering in the same spot near the root can lead to uneven growth and poor nutrient uptake. Water around the plant and distribute the water throughout the entire watering area.

Water in a way that conserves water
Water as much as necessary and as little as possible. This can be made easier with an automatic watering system with moisture sensors – in the garden, on the balcony, or on the lawn.

Avoid drowning your plants
If plants are left sitting in water, it prevents the roots from getting air from the soil – root cells die without oxygen.

Use high-quality clay-based soil
Plant soil rich in clay minerals has better expansion properties and therefore retains water better. Ensure good drainage to avoid drowning plants in wet weather.

Read more:

Pruning – how to succeed

Pruning of plants is most often done to create shapes or sizes, or to get larger yields and more flowers. Fruit trees such as apple and pear can be pruned regularly so that they give the best possible yield. Other bushes and trees can be pruned less frequently to rejuvenate and even them out.

Perennials in beds and pots – planting and care

Perennials are a collective term for plants that return year after year, and there are countless varieties to choose from. Traditionally, they are planted in the ground, but many perennials also do well in large pots.

Extend summer in the garden

Late summer and autumn are wonderful times in the garden. For those who have planted and sown vegetables and fruit, there is much that ripens during this period. Many perennials are at their best now, and roses and hydrangeas are also in full bloom.

How to care for your hedge

A hedge needs regular care to stay healthy and even. But when is the best time to trim it? Read more here to learn everything you need to know about trimming and maintaining your hedge.

You are here:

Tips and tricks - Garden care

Topics:

Garden care

Summer