The Definitive Guide to Watering Plants and Keeping them Hydrated

Water is the lifeblood of trees and other plants. A lack of water also leaves plants susceptible to diseases and pests. Plants can also die if you don’t water them adequately. Trees and plants growing in New England are no exception. In fact, they typically need more water than if planted in other regions—thanks mainly to the cooler climate and variable rainfall patterns.

New England often has long, cold winters and short, cool springs. If the ground freezes during those months, plants may be unable to access water, stressing them out. Poor access to water can also lead to a plant’s death. Then there are the summers to deal with. Summers can feature dry conditions or drought. With the region being relatively humid, water will evaporate quickly from the soil. Plants can wilt and die if it does not rain for several weeks.

Specific Reasons Why Watering Is Critical

Watering plants is the key to helping plants to survive and thrive. They need water for not only photosynthesis—the process by which they convert sunlight into energy—but also to transport nutrients throughout the plant. Water also helps plants absorb critical nutrients. Without water, plants can’t dissolve the soil’s minerals and nutrients needed for growing and developing. Plus, water provides turgor pressure, which keeps plant cells rigid and upright. Lacking turbo pressure, plants will wilt and die.

Plants also lose water through transpiration. This process, which is how water from leaves evaporates, cools plants so they don’t overheat. Water also helps plants fortify themselves against pests and diseases. Plants lacking water become more susceptible to injury from insects, fungi, and other pathogens. Maintaining a healthy plant impacts our environment. Plants improve air quality, reduce soil erosion, provide shade and shelter, and enhance the beauty of our surroundings.

Practical Tips on Watering Trees and Plants

New England’s weather is unpredictable. So, providing enough water to plants can test your patience. Below are tips we suggest to people to keep your plants hydrated:

1. Research your plant’s water needs: Not all plants are equal when it comes to watering. Some, like succulents, can survive long periods of dry conditions or even drought. Others, like ferns, need more water. So, do some research to determine how much water your plants need, then give it to them.

• Cluster plants with similar water needs: Clustering makes it easier for you to water them on a timely schedule. So, you’re more likely to keep to a regular schedule. One way to do this is to group plants needing water daily and those needing water weekly.

• Water deeply and infrequently: That promotes healthy root growth. Roots will grow deep into the soil, which will help them become more drought-tolerant. This approach also is ideal for trees and shrubs. But be careful. Not watering enough can lead to shallow root growth, which makes them prone to wilting and dying during dry times.

• Water early morning or late evening: Watering plants mid-day is the worst time to do it because the water can evaporate quickly, leaving the roots dry. Instead, water early in the morning or late evening. That way, the water filters through to the roots.

• Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system: These approaches to water are ideal for watering your plants. They deliver water directly to a plant’s roots. Plus, they are much more efficient and less wasteful, which saves you money on your water bill.
• Mulching correctly: Mulch helps retain soil moisture, which means you can water less often. Plus, mulching helps eliminate the growth of weeds and regulates the soil’s temperature. Mulch around your plants is what’s usually advised.
• Check soil moisture: Checking soil moisture tells you when to water your plants. So, do it regularly. All you need to do is slip your finger into the plant’s soil up to your first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, then water the plant. If it feels moist, wait a few days and then recheck soil moisture.

One caveat when it comes to watering plants: don’t over-water. It can lead to root rot—a deadly fungal disease. Also, make sure you adjust your schedule to the region’s weather. Water more during dry periods. Water less during cool, rainy periods. Finally, watch for water stress. Some common signs of stress in plants include wilting, drooping, and yellowing or browning leaves. If you see any of these signs, water your plants.