Water containers when the top inch of soil is dry, deeply enough that water runs out the bottom, ideally in the morning. In a Maine July that can mean every day for pots in full sun.
Key takeaways
- Check first: push a finger an inch into the soil — water only if it’s dry.
- Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, so the whole root zone gets wet.
- Water the soil, not the leaves and flowers.
Step by step
- Check the soil. Push a finger about an inch into the pot. Dry? Time to water. Damp? Wait.
- Watch the weather. Skip or water lightly before a long, soaking rain.
- Water deeply. Keep going until water runs out of the drainage holes.
- Water in the morning. Cooler air means less evaporation, and the plant starts the day with a full drink.
- Aim for the soil. Wet leaves and flowers fade faster and invite disease. A watering can or drip line makes this easy.
- Adjust through the season. Hot, dry, windy weeks need more water; cool weeks need less.
Don’t overwater
Soil that stays soggy rots roots as surely as drought kills them. If the soil is always wet, water less often — and make sure every pot has a drainage hole.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water hanging baskets?
In July and August, usually every day, sometimes twice for baskets in full sun and wind.
Should I put gravel in the bottom of pots?
No — it doesn’t improve drainage. Use a good potting mix and a pot with a drainage hole instead.
What’s the best time of day to water?
Morning. Evening watering leaves foliage wet overnight, which can lead to disease.
Do I need to fertilize container plants?
Yes. Regular watering washes nutrients out, so feed every one to two weeks in summer.