Watering is one of the most frequent tasks we perform as gardeners.

We often misjudge a plant’s need for water, either dehydrating through neglect or drowning with love.

Plants can’t say when they need a good “drink,” but we can observe them to get that balance right to help with the growing process.

When we are able to get this balance correct, we can grow healthy, productive plants and minimize disease.

Let’s take a closer look at some common misconceptions about watering.

Soil moisture is essential for proper plant growth. A healthy plant can contain up to 90 percent water, which is used for essential functions such as the movement of nutrients and photosynthesis.

Every plant is different in its requirements. New seedlings and established trees will have different requirements for water consumption.

Frequent light watering can cause the development of a shallow root system close to the surface, leading to vulnerability for new plants during a drought. More established plants with deep root systems may benefit from infrequent deep watering.

The amount of water needed by each plant is dependent on multiple factors: weather and time of year, type of soil, type of plant, stage of growth, and location. Consider investing in a soaker hose to place water at the root area for better absorption and mulching to preserve the water where it is needed and reduce evaporation. If possible, avoid watering at the foliage of the plant, which can lead to disease.

Xeriscape is a style of landscape design in which plants and shrubs are selected based on their requirement of needing little irrigation. While the moisture requirements may be lower for this type of planting, all plants need water.

Low-moisture plants may be better equipped to take up and store water for times of drought by slowing their growth and shedding their leaves to accommodate the lack of water. However, all new plants will require frequent watering to establish their root system, and the plants used in a xeriscape are no exception. If available, these drought-tolerant plants may utilize additional water and store it for later use.

Leaf damage can occur because of many causes: too much or too little moisture, insect damage, disease, over-fertilization, and weather conditions such as wind or frost, not sun scorching.

Usually, the rate of evaporation is quick, especially on the hottest, most intense, sunny day. For example, a mid-day rain can actually cool off foliage during a summer day.

The best time for watering plants is in the early morning to avoid evaporation and reduce the potential for disease.

A downpour of rain can be deceiving. Storms tend to lead to water running off more than soaking into the ground where it can be utilized by plants, leaving the soil surprisingly dry, despite puddles on your patio and drops of water on plant leaves.

Consider using a moisture meter, your finger, or even a stick to assess your soil for the required moisture for successful growing.

Watering can be confusing for even the most experienced gardeners, especially with the vast amount of information available at our fingertips. Watering plants correctly is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of plants, protect water resources wasted by runoff and evaporation, and minimize disease. Knowing the “what” and “when” of watering in your garden is the key to growing healthy plants and conserving this precious resource.

“Growing Green” is contributed by Diane Dorn, Lehigh County Extension Office Staff, and Master Gardeners. Information: Lehigh County Extension Office, 610-391-9840; Northampton County Extension Office, 610-813-6613.