Watering Wisdom: Keep Your Garden Thriving This Summer

Proper watering is one of the most important (and often misunderstood) parts of garden care. Whether you’re growing veggies, flowers, or shrubs, how and when you water can make all the difference—especially during hot Massachusetts summers.

💧 The Do’s of Watering

Water early in the day
Morning is best. It gives plants time to absorb moisture before the heat sets in and reduces the risk of disease.
Water deeply and less frequently
Aim to soak the root zone. Shallow, daily watering encourages weak roots. Deep watering 2–3 times per week is ideal for established plants.
Use mulch to conserve moisture
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around your plants. It keeps the soil cool, holds in moisture, and helps prevent weeds.
Check the soil first
Stick your finger into the soil 2–3 inches deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, hold off.
Group plants by water needs
Keep thirsty plants like hydrangeas and veggies together, separate from drought-tolerant varieties like sedum or lavender.

🚫 The Don’ts of Watering

Don’t water in the heat of the day
Midday watering wastes water to evaporation and can cause leaf scorch on some plants.
Don’t rely only on sprinklers
Overhead sprinkling can promote disease and often misses the roots. Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation when possible.
Don’t water every day
Daily watering can lead to shallow roots and water waste. Most plants prefer deep, occasional soaking.
Don’t forget your containers
Pots dry out faster than garden beds—check them daily, especially during heatwaves.
Don’t overwater
More plants suffer from overwatering than underwatering. Yellowing leaves can be a sign of soggy roots.

Expert Tip: Want to simplify watering? Try adding a timer to your soaker hose setup for hassle-free hydration. Or ask the staff at 16 Acres about moisture meters—perfect for taking the guesswork out of garden care.

Stay cool, water smart, and enjoy the lush results of a happy, hydrated garden! 🌿