When is the optimal time to water landscape plants?

Watering landscape plants in the early morning or at night is optimal for several reasons. During these times, temperatures are generally cooler, leading to reduced evaporation rates. This means that more water can penetrate the soil and reach the root system of the plants, providing adequate hydration.

Early morning watering allows plants to absorb moisture before the heat of the day, which is especially important for their health and growth. Additionally, watering in the evening can help maintain soil moisture overnight, although it is essential to avoid water sitting on foliage, which can promote fungal diseases.

In contrast, watering during midday leads to significant water loss due to evaporation, while late afternoon watering may not provide enough time for the plants to dry before nightfall, increasing the risk of disease. Waiting until plants appear wilted can stress the plants and hinder their overall health and vigor. Thus, the early morning or nighttime approach ensures that landscape plants receive the water they need effectively and efficiently.