Wondering how to water your containers and hanging baskets with just the perfect amount of water?
Watering container plants might seem like one of the easiest tasks of all for gardeners, but in truth, it’s one of the most misunderstood. Every summer, countless gardeners unknowingly damage or even kill their container plants simply by watering them incorrectly.
Whether it’s watering too much, too little, or simply not knowing when the soil is truly dry, it all leads to plants suffering with less growth and far fewer blooms. And sometimes, so much so that the plant completely dies off!
One of the biggest challenges with container and hanging basket plants is that their environment is so much different than plants growing in the ground. With limited soil space, faster drying times, and smaller root zones, containers require more attention and care when it comes to watering. Unfortunately, many gardeners rely on visual cues from the surface of the soil or by guessing based on the weather, and that’s where the problems begin.
But here’s the good news – there is a simple solution that can take all the guesswork out of watering your container plants. A single tool can help make sure your plants get the right amount of water every time – and help prevent the problems of overwatering and underwatering for good.
The Perfect Way To Water Containers & Hanging Baskets
Why Watering Containers Is So Tricky
Container plants don’t have the luxury of deep soil. Unlike garden plants that can send roots far and wide to find moisture, container plants are limited to a few gallons of soil at most. When the soil dries out, the roots can’t reach out any further. And when that happens, the plants quickly go into distress.
On the flip side, containers that stay too wet also present big issues. When soil is overly moist for long periods of time, it suffocates the roots. As it does, it then robs them of the oxygen they need to survive. Constantly wet soil can also cause root rot, mold issues, and fungal disease.
Unfortunately, from the surface, both overwatering and underwatering can look the same. Both can cause wilting, yellowing of the leaves, and weak plant growth.
That’s what makes watering containers so tough. Just looking at the top of the soil tells you almost nothing about what’s going on down at the root level, which is the only place that really matters!
Getting The Right Amount Of Water To The Roots Of Hanging Baskets & Container Plants
When it comes to watering, the real focus should always be on the moisture content at the roots. That’s where the plant takes in water, and that’s what matters most for overall health.
Unfortunately, many gardeners make watering decisions based on the top inch or two of soil. If the surface looks dry, they water. If it looks damp, they skip it.
But here’s the truth: the top layer of soil in containers can dry out quickly in the sun, even when there’s still plenty of moisture down deep. Or, just as common, the top might feel moist from a light rain or watering, while the roots underneath are bone dry.
Listen In Below To Our Podcast On How To Fertilize Hanging Baskets For Big Blooms!
The only way to know if your plant needs water is to check where the roots live – and that means checking 4 to 6 inches below the surface in most medium to large containers. But sticking your fingers in that deep is difficult and not always accurate, especially in tightly packed or hanging baskets. And that’s where one simple tool makes all the difference.
The One Tool Every Container Gardener Should Own – A Moisture Meter!
The best way to know when and how much to water your container plants is with a long-probe soil moisture meter. These inexpensive, easy-to-use tools can be inserted directly into the soil to measure the moisture level at the root zone – the one place that really matters. XLUX Long Probe Deep Use Soil Moisture Meter Sensor, Water Monitor Indicator
Most soil moisture meters work without batteries and give an instant reading. Some are digital, but the basic analog dial-type models work just as well. The key is to get one with a long probe, ideally 6 to 12 inches in length. That lets you reach the bottom half of most containers and get an accurate reading of the moisture where roots are pulling in water.
Using one is simple: Insert the probe into the soil, give it a few seconds to register, and read the gauge. If it shows dry or near dry, it’s time to water. If it shows moist or wet, hold off. That’s all there is to it. You’ll be surprised how often the surface soil and the root zone show different readings.
By using a soil meter, you not only avoid overwatering and underwatering, but you also help your plants grow stronger. Consistent watering at the right time reduces plant stress, encourages better blooming and fruiting, and lowers the risk of disease.
Good Watering Techniques for Container Plants
Knowing when to water is half the battle – but how you water is just as important. Once you’ve confirmed your container needs water, follow these tips to make sure your efforts are effective:
Water Deep, Not Light – A light sprinkle only wets the surface. You want to thoroughly soak the soil until water runs out of the bottom drainage holes. This ensures the entire root system gets moisture, and it also helps flush out excess salts and build-up from fertilizers.
Water in the Morning – Early morning watering gives plants time to take up moisture before the heat of the day. It also allows foliage to dry off quickly, reducing the chance of fungal disease.
Use Mulch on Top – Adding a light mulch on top of containers can help retain moisture. It will also help cool the soil and reduce how often you need to water.
Avoid Splashing the Leaves – Watering directly at the base of the plant helps keep leaves dry, which is especially important for disease prevention in flowers, vegetables, and herbs.
Don’t Count On The Rain – A quick summer shower might not be enough to rehydrate containers. Always use your moisture meter to check whether your pots actually got enough moisture after a storm.
Here is to use a simple tool to help you water your containers and hanging baskets to perfection. And to having gorgeous potted plants all summer long! For more on hanging baskets, check out our article: How To Save Struggling Hanging Baskets.
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This Is My Garden is a garden website created by gardeners, for gardeners. Jim and Mary Competti have been writing gardening, DIY and recipe articles and books and speaking for over 15 years from their 46 acre Ohio farm. They publish three articles every week, 52 weeks a year. Sign up today to follow via email, or follow along!