The Art of Watering

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Say the weather report for today in Memphis, TN, is 105⁰ and high humidity...how do I take care of all my plants?

Watering plants if you are a novice can be intimidating.

I have had great success with plants using these tips; follow them, and you should be fine.

First if you can’t water every morning, I suggest potting your container plants in a heavy mix. This will help ensure that your plants will stay hydrated for at least a few days.

What is a heavy mix? Adding amendments like Black Kow manure, soil conditioner, and perlite to your normal potting mix will make your planting mix heavier. .
Water until the water flows throw the container. If the pot becomes very dry, the root ball will separate from the container, and you may need to let water run through 2 or 3 times to re-hydrate the container

If the plant is in the ground avoid over-watering. Standing water will prevent the rootfrom getting enough oxygen and can cause disease problems. With clay soils here in Memphis, this can happen frequently. It is best to water deeply and less frequently, but stop when you see water standing, not draining away.

Watering and the care of plants should be fun...relax, pick out plants you love, and call or email us at the Garden if you have any questions!

You can reach a horticulturist at 901-636-4134 or plantquestions@memphisbotanicgarden.com.

By Manny Pailet, Greenhouse Manager at MBG

Posted by manny pailet at 6:00 AM

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