Three plant watering ‘mistakes’ causing ‘havoc’ and ‘leggy’ stems in your garden

Gardening: Francis Tophill advises on watering plants without a hose

Watering is crucial in helping plants survive and thrive throughout the warmer months of the year, with some plants requiring hydrating twice a day in some instances.

Experts at Rhino Greenhouses Direct have shared why gardeners shouldn’t be using both hard and soft water to water their plants because it’ll cause “havoc” in the garden.

1. Using tap water

They explained: “If you’re in an area with hard water, higher levels of calcium and magnesium carbonates will have an effect on your plants.

“Minerals are of course good in the right dosage, but too much will hurt more than they help.

“Too much of these minerals will turn your soil into a high alkaline environment that some of your plants won’t enjoy.”

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However, soft water, also may not be ideal because it is often treated with sodium or potassium, which makes the water saltier.

If used intermittently, soft and hard water won’t cause too much harm, but it is recommended using rainwater if possible, which is much better for the planet and plants.

Rainwater has a “multitude of benefits” for gardening as it has a natural pH, making it fresher and cleaner for plants.

2. Watering the leaves

While watering the leaves of a plant can reduce the overall plant’s temperature, it isn’t recommended.

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This is because watering the leaves too often can cause them to lose moisture and may make them end up with leggy stems and diseases.

In some instances, it can also result in the plant becoming scorched, especially if watering at the hottest time of the day, which is another mistake.

3. Watering at the wrong time

The experts at Phostrogen explained: “Of course, water more regularly during summer months and hot spells.

“In spring and autumn, water early in the morning, but in the summer, it can be best to wait until the evening as watering during full sun can burn the plants.”

When watering in the evening, there is less chance of evaporation, which means the plant will actually receive all of the water given to it.

The pros added: “Think about where your plants are positioned. South facing plants are likely to need more water as the direct sun will dry out soil quickly, and remember that some plants and vegetables prefer more water than others.

“For example, tomatoes and roses are thirsty and require lots of watering, whereas plants such as lavender and poppies and vegetables like asparagus do not, every plant is different.”

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