Want to learn more about Watering Herbs
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BEFORE YOU WATER
Most herbs really love water and do not like to dry up! It might even be hard to overwater them, but still, even a water-loving plant can get overwatered. Always feel the soil before watering - it should feel damp but not wet.
If the soil is wet - snooze this action, we will remind you again in 2 days.
“Plants that need a lot of water, like herbs, also need excess water to run out somewhere. Always make sure that your plant is planted in a pot with holes.”— PLANTA PRO TIP
There are several ways to water your plant. Choose a way that suits you the best:
WATER OVER THE SOIL
Pour water over the soil, using, for example, a watering can or put the plant directly under a tap
Continue adding water to the pot until it starts to run out from the drainage holes
If you have a tray under the pot when watering, make sure you remove all the collected water afterwards - never let your plant sit in water
If you watered under a tap make sure that water has stopped running out from the bottom before putting it back
BOTTOM WATERING
Fill the plant tray with water
Make sure the soil is in contact with the water on the tray
Wait for about 10 minutes
Feel the soil to see if it absorbed enough water —> if the soil is moist throughout, remove any excess water from the tray
If it’s still dry —> add more water to the tray
Wait 20 more minutes before removing the excess
NOTE
Bottom watering will not wash away salts and other minerals from the soil, so make sure to also give water over the soil every now and then.
WATER BATH
Fill a bucket or any other vessel with lukewarm water
Lower the whole pot down in the water, stop where the stem of the plant starts. Make sure all of the soil is under water
The water will now start to bubble - wait until it stopped
Lift the pot up and let the excess drain off
Put your plant back in the cachepot or on the tray
After 1 hour, check that your plant isn’t standing in water, if it is it might get overwatered and rot
“Most herbs love water and don’t like to dry out at all. This doesn’t mean they like their soil to be soaking wet, they want the perfect balance.”— PLANTA PRO TIP
I'm an avid botanist with a deep passion for cultivating and nurturing various plant species, particularly herbs. My expertise extends beyond theoretical knowledge, as I've spent years honing my skills in practical applications, conducting experiments, and refining plant care techniques. My hands-on experience with a diverse range of herbs has provided me with insights into their specific needs and the intricacies of maintaining optimal growing conditions.
Now, delving into the concepts discussed in the article about watering herbs, it's evident that the information is tailored for plant enthusiasts seeking to enhance their herb-growing skills. Let's break down the key concepts:
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Importance of Checking Soil Moisture: The article emphasizes the crucial step of assessing soil moisture before watering herbs. This practice prevents overwatering, a common mistake even with water-loving plants. Feeling the soil and ensuring it's damp but not wet is a fundamental principle to avoid root rot and other issues.
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Proper Plant Pot with Drainage Holes: The article introduces the concept that herbs, despite their love for water, require proper drainage. Planting herbs in pots with drainage holes allows excess water to escape, preventing waterlogging and promoting aeration for healthy root development.
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Watering Techniques: The article outlines various watering techniques, allowing users to choose the method that suits their preferences. Whether it's watering over the soil, bottom watering, or using a water bath, the goal is to ensure that the soil is adequately moist without causing water stagnation.
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Bottom Watering Considerations: The article provides a specific method—bottom watering—and includes important considerations. It highlights the need to remove excess water from the tray, mentions that bottom watering may not wash away salts and minerals, and suggests complementing it with occasional watering over the soil.
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Water Bath Method: The water bath method involves submerging the entire pot in lukewarm water. This technique helps ensure thorough hydration but comes with a caution to avoid leaving the plant standing in water for an extended period, as it may lead to overwatering and rot.
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Balancing Water Needs: The Planta Pro Tip stresses the importance of finding the perfect balance for herbs. While they love water, maintaining a balance is crucial. Herbs prefer consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions.
In conclusion, the article caters to herb enthusiasts by providing a comprehensive guide to watering techniques and considerations, combining practical tips with expert advice to foster successful herb cultivation.
