How to water your plants efficiently during heat waves

It’s no secret that temperatures are often soaring in summer! Even though the majority of us enjoy those beautiful days, plants, however, are not the biggest fans. That is why it’s important to water them properly. Listed below are our best watering tips.

1. Water early!

The best time to water your plants is preferably before 10 in the morning. Why? Simply because the water is less likely to evaporate at this time of day. Your plants are therefore greatly benefited.

Although water does not evaporate at night, we still don’t recommend watering at this time. Watering your plants at night tends to keep the leaves moist for several hours which can increase the probability of leaf diseases. Slugs also tend to settle there; they love moist and freshly watered soil! Keep them away by avoiding this time slot.

One thing is for sure however: watering in the middle of the day is definitely the worst moment, as the majority of the water evaporates and the contribution to the plants is minimal. Watering is therefore inefficient.

2. Don’t be afraid to water them “too much”

Think you’ve drowned your plants? They’re actually probably asking for more! For them to survive the summer heat, it is important to water them abundantly so that the first 15cm of their soil is soaked. Simply dig a small hole in the ground to check their water supply.

3. Avoid watering daily

During a heat wave, we recommend watering your plants once or twice a week. Even though this might seem not frequent enough, it’s actually totally adequate but only if we keep in mind to water deeply. Frequent but quick watering periods only hydrate the plant’s surface, leaving the rest of it dehydrated.

4. Adopt preventive methods

Although heat waves often take us by surprise, they can be a breeze if we’re well prepared to face them!

Put some mulch!

This helps preserve the soil’s moisture, even with potted plants! We like to say this: 1 mulch is worth 2 waterings.
Mulches enhances the look of your flowerbeds and control weeds.

Choose larger containers.

Even if your plant is not necessarily as big as the container, it retains more moisture, unlike small containers that dry faster.

Under a heat wave advisory, move your potted plants in the shade.

They will remain hydrated much longer than in direct sunlight.

By following these tips, your plants should have a nice summer, just like you! Don’t forget to consider municipal by-laws regarding watering during heat waves as they could interfere with some of these tips.

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