Do plants need daily watering?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Knowing whether plants should be watered every day helps you avoid common gardening mistakes. Most established plants grow better with a weekly deep soaking vs daily sprinkles. Seedlings are the only ones that need daily watering to keep the soil moist for the first couple of weeks. Overwatering causes more plants to die than underwatering because it suffocates the roots, which I learned when I lost mature shrubs to root rot.
Seedling Requirements
- Daily watering essential for first 14 days
- Shallow roots dry out quickly needing consistent moisture
- Gradually reduce frequency as roots establish
Established Plant Needs
- Deep weekly soakings encourage strong root growth
- Infrequent watering trains roots to seek moisture deep down
- Signs of thirst appear before damage occurs
Overwatering cuts off roots before they get thirsty. Wet soil fills air pockets, leaving roots with no oxygen. Roots rot in a matter of days in soil that is soggy. My peace lily flattened within a week of constant watering, while cacti thrived on being neglected. Find out what your plants really need for water and forget the schedule.
Modify watering frequency according to weather and seasons. Potted plants may need watering twice a day in 90°F heat, but some plants will only need watering once a month in cool fall temperatures. Always do the finger test before watering. Stick your finger into the soil 3 inches deep. Water only if the soil is dry and crumbly.
Cacti and succulents require specialized care. Water these plants monthly, regardless of summer temps. Use the soak-and-dry method: saturate the soil thoroughly, but let it dry fully before watering again. In winter, suspend watering altogether. This method simulates its native habitat in the desert, ultimately preventing rot. Most of my cacti bloom consistently, thanks to this simple care regimen.
Develop an efficient watering system by grouping plants with similar water needs or any other relevant categorization. Consider using drip irrigation with a timer for a more uniform watering schedule. Use moisture meters to eliminate all the guesswork. These devices have radically changed my garden maintenance experience. Plants with deep roots are much better able to endure drought situations than plants growing in consistently wet conditions.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Tips: When to Water Plants
