Watering container plants can be both an art and a science. To keep them healthy, you must take into account their environment, the type of soil they are in, and the size of the plant.
Start by assessing the moisture levels of your soil. If it feels too dry, wait until it has had time to absorb some of that water before adding more. When your soil is moist but not overly saturated, add enough to do an adequate job but not over-saturate your plants.
To avoid stressing or shocking the plant’s root system, use lukewarm or room temperature water instead of cold or hot water. If temperatures outside are hot or freezing, adjust this accordingly. Be meticulous when pouring water, as it should evenly flow from all directions around the roots for optimal absorption.
When watering containers on balconies or patios exposed to direct sunlight, consider using window boxes to shield against extreme temperatures and sunlight intensity during the hottest days of summer. If possible, remove any debris around your plants’ containers, so air circulation is optimized.
Finally, check for drainage holes in planter boxes before transferring your plants into new homes, as clogged drainage channels could cause harm to root systems leading to potential flooding and affecting overall health and longevity of your plants.