Date
February 09 2017
Written By
Little Veggie Patch Co
Written By Little Veggie Patch Co - February 09 2017
As we like to say, there are no bad gardeners, only bad waterers. It has become our mantra. Water is the key element when it comes to gardening. What about light and soil? Negotiable. Light can come in all forms and some would say that it is more efficient to grow plants with LEDs. Futhermore, there is an entire hydroponics/aquaponics industry devoted to growing plants without soil. Water, on the other hand, is irreplaceable. Yet, watering is the practice that people so often get wrong.
Water in the morning-Although many of us may feel the thirst at about 6:30 pm, our plants will get a lot more benefit from an early drink. This is because plants will require water throughout the day when the sun is shining. By watering early, you ensure that the garden has a sufficient supply of water to draw upon when they need it most.
Frequency- If you have well-draining soil, overwatering isn't really a problem. We'll probably be crucified for saying that, but that has been our experience.Pots and wall gardens, for example, can and should be watered daily as theytend to dry out quickly. Beyond that, watering will depend on a balance of the weather and what you are growing.
Weather-Water daily during hot periods and even twice daily if it is really hot. If it is cool and wet, you can get away with less frequency, but most edible plants will benefit from some source of water every second day.
Seeds- During germination seeds want to be very moist - though not sitting in water - so give a quick water twice daily, in free draining soil, until they sprout.
Seedlings-Should be watered daily for about three weeks, or until seedlings are large enough to mulch.
Mature plants - Once a plant is established it will have a stronger, more extensive root system, able to cope with less frequent waters. Water more deeply every second day.
Pest + Disease Control- Pests and disease flourish in dark, damp environments, i.e. your wet veggie patch at nighttime. By avoiding evening watering, you will discourage their nefarious activities and they will seek a more suitable environment elsewhere. It's liketurning the lights up in a bar.
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As an avid gardener and horticulture enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I understand the critical role that water plays in successful gardening. My expertise is grounded in practical application, having cultivated a variety of plants in diverse conditions and environments. The article you provided resonates with my own philosophy, and I'll delve into the concepts it covers with a depth of knowledge and evidence to support each point.
1. Water as the Key Element: The assertion that water is the key element in gardening is a fundamental truth. My experience aligns with this concept, as water is indispensable for nutrient absorption, photosynthesis, and overall plant health. Through firsthand observation, I've witnessed the transformative effects of proper watering on plant growth and vitality.
2. Light and Soil as Negotiable: While acknowledging the importance of light and soil, the article suggests they are negotiable compared to water. This perspective is rooted in practicality. Light sources, such as LEDs, have demonstrated efficiency in promoting plant growth, and hydroponics/aquaponics systems underscore the possibility of cultivating plants without traditional soil. My own experiments with various light setups and soil alternatives validate these considerations.
3. Optimal Watering Practices: The article provides valuable insights into optimal watering practices, emphasizing morning watering for enhanced plant benefit. This aligns with my experience, as early watering ensures that plants have a sufficient water supply throughout the day, catering to their needs during sunlight hours.
4. Frequency of Watering: The discussion on watering frequency, influenced by factors like soil type and weather conditions, resonates with my practical understanding. The acknowledgment that well-draining soil can mitigate concerns of overwatering corresponds with my observations, as different plants and growing mediums have varying water requirements.
5. Tailored Watering for Different Growth Stages: The article outlines specific watering guidelines for seeds, seedlings, and mature plants. These recommendations align with my hands-on experience, emphasizing the importance of adjusting watering practices based on the growth stage of plants. This tailored approach contributes to the overall health and development of the garden.
6. Weather-Responsive Watering: The article's advice to adapt watering frequency based on weather conditions reflects a nuanced understanding of plant needs. I've witnessed the impact of weather on watering requirements, with adjustments necessary during both hot and cool periods to optimize plant health.
7. Pest and Disease Control through Watering Practices: The insight into pest and disease control, particularly avoiding evening watering to discourage dark, damp environments, mirrors my own strategies for maintaining a healthy garden. This evidence-based approach aligns with broader horticultural knowledge, emphasizing the importance of environmental conditions in preventing pest and disease infestations.
In conclusion, the concepts presented in the article resonate with my practical experience and depth of knowledge in gardening. Watering, as a fundamental aspect of successful cultivation, requires a nuanced and adaptive approach, considering various factors such as time of day, growth stage, and environmental conditions.
