Gardening expert gives advice on how to water plants

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A gardening expert has shared how to water plants effectively. Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Rebecca Bevan said there is “an art” to watering plants despite how easy it looks. She said in a 2012 video for the RHS: “All plants need water to thrive and getting watering right is a bit of an art.

“It’s great if you can have a water butt in your garden because you’re collecting rainwater and you don’t have to worry about a hose pipe bans.”

Rebecca said different plants will require different amounts of water depending on the environment they’re suited to.

She continued: “Different plants need different amounts of water.

“This lavender with its narrow, grey leaves is from the Mediterranean and it really doesn’t need too much water.

“Whereas something like lettuce with these fast-growing soft leaves, this is going to need regular watering.”

To check if your plant needs watering, the gardening expert suggests putting your bare fingers in the soil.

“Now, the only way to check whether your plant needs a drink is to put your fingers in the compost and feel.

“Insert your finger down into the root area.

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“If you can feel moisture down there, the plant is probably going to be alright for another day.

“But if it’s dry, give it a drink.”

Another aspect to keep an eye on is the weather.

So far this year, the weather has been unpredictable with cooler temperatures and rain.

Rainy weather could mean your plant is at risk of being overwatered.

Rebecca said: “In hot, dry weather you might be checking this every day or two.

“But in cold weather, or rainy weather, don’t worry, you don’t want to be overwatering plants as wet roots can lead to rot.

“Whether you’re using a watering can or a hose, it’s important to water right at the base of plants onto the roots rather than splashing water all over the leaves.

“It’s only really plants in small pots like this one or seedlings that are going to need daily watering.

“Now, this may all seem simple but getting watering right can make all the difference to your garden.”

It’s best to water your plants in the cool of the evening or very early in the morning.

If you water your plants in the day, the water could evaporate before getting to the roots.

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