Choosing the Right Watering Method

In a perfect world, there would be perfectly timed, regular rain showers with provide the perfect amount of water every time. But unfortunately, the world is not perfect, and it is absolutely crucial as gardeners that we stay on top of watering our plants. This is especially relevant as we anticipate the dog days of summer.

While watering seems pretty straightforward, there is a lot more to it than just turning on the tap once in a while. The right method really depends on a few key factors such as time on hand, your local climate, the types of plants you’re growing, and terrain type are all important things to weigh when considering the best choice for your garden. In this post, we’ll walk through the most common and effective watering methods and which one makes the most sense for your garden.

Hand-Watering

This is the simplest, most hands-on watering method there is. If you're working in a small space or just a few plants, a good ol' fashioned watering can will do the trick, often needing just a couple of refills. For slightly larger areas, a hose with a gentle spray nozzle can make the job easier while still giving you full control. No matter which tool you’re using, always aim the water at the base of each plant rather than over the top. This method will help deliver water straight to the roots where it’s needed most and reduces the risk of fungal issues on leaves. Young Hydrangeas benefit immensely from direct hand-watering as their shallow, new roots develop.

Hand-watering can be time-consuming, especially in bigger gardens, but many gardeners find a sense of meditation in this commitment. Walking through your plot and checking in on each plant turns this into a calming routine. This connection with your garden is something no other system can truly replicate, and you will notice a greater awareness of changes in your garden.

If you’re a beginner, it can take some practice to know how much water to give to each plant based on signs. But, due to the up-close-and-personal nature of hand-watering, you will get the hang of it quickly.

Where it’s best: If you have a small garden or fewer plants, hand-watering is the way to go. This method is also preferable if you have plants that have very specific needs that require a little closer attention. While there are a few different tools at your disposal with hand-watering, the effect is the same: this is the best method to listen and respond to each plant’s individual needs.

Sprinkler Systems

Whether you have a massive lawn, incredible sprawling garden beds, or a super busy schedule, sprinkler systems may be the way to go.

Sprinkler systems allow you to essentially set it and forget it. While not always optimal for plants with sensitive foliage, sprinkler watering allows you to cover maximum space with very little effort on your part.

Grasses in particular thrive with regular sprinkler watering, as the water directly runs down their vertical blades and into the roots to be absorbed. Other sprawling plants that cover a large area, such as Lawn Moss, will also enjoy the regular and consistent moisture provided with sprinklers.

The key is to set them up well so that the watering can be as precise as possible (and you don’t just end up watering your driveway or sidewalk!). While sprinkler systems can be pricey to set up, the time saving factor may be worth it depending on your lifestyle and plant needs.

Where it’s best: Sprinkler systems benefit large yards, sprawling gardens, or those with very little time to water.

Drip Irrigation

This is perhaps the most advanced, precise, and efficient watering method out there. If you are growing a ton of plants with very specific needs, drip irrigation is a must-have.

The most basic models for residential purposes connect directly to a hose or faucet, and you can control how long you want the water to run. Fancier, commercial models have timers or volume control, sometimes for each valve group, to exact total precision in watering. But no matter the type, drip irrigation efficiently delivers waters straight to the roots, which is the preferred method of watering for total plant health.

This precise watering can also help prevent the growth of weeds since the water supply is restricted to only the exact spots of plants you’re cultivating. If you’re in a climate that struggles with water conservation, the precision of this method is a fantastic solution.

While this watering method requires very little work after setting it up, no system is completely hands-off. Emitters can clog or malfunction, so it’s still important to check your plants regularly to make sure everything is running smoothly. A quick daily glance can save you from discovering a thirsty plant too late.

Many trees grow best with drip irrigation, particularly in the early years. If you are looking to grow edible food plots, more water is often required to produce the juiciest fruits. Trees such as Pear Tree or Peach Tree grow best when given a consistent source of water, making them ideal candidates for drip irrigation. Where it’s best: Drip irrigation is a highly effective and precise method for very large gardens, edible foot plots, or in an area where water conservation is a priority.

The Most Important Thing

At the end of the day, it’s less about which watering method you use and more about sticking with it. Try to find a rhythm that works for both you and your garden. When you can, water deeply but not too often. That way, the roots grow strong and the plants stay healthier in the long run. Whether you’re using one method or a mix of a few, what really matters is being consistent and paying attention. The more time you spend with your plants, the easier it gets to know what they need, and you will grow as a gardener.