Plants Need Right Balance Of Water

By Mark Flory, Miami County Agricultural Extension Agent

Mark Flory

We have seen rain after rain this spring in Miami County. Even though it has been too wet to plant much, I will discuss the effects of under- and over-watering plants.

It seems like we have enough surface water right now to last a long time, but chances are we will all be asking for rain at some point this summer.

Many factors contribute to a plant’s success, including soil (nutrients), sunlight, water, carbon dioxide and oxygen. I will mainly focus on water.

When you go to a store or nursery to buy plants, think about the environment where the plants will live. If you look where you want to plant and notice the area usually holds water and is slow-draining, then you want to choose a plant that fits those criteria. To have success you need plants that fit where you are planting them.

When we look at watering challenges, most people think under-watering is the major problem. However, we run into about the same number of people whose plants are not performing because of over-watering.

Plants need water to survive just like we do. Plants need water to help break down nutrients and with photosynthesis, which is when the plant takes in carbon dioxide and transpires water from the leaves.

When under-watering is an issue, you will see a plant wilting and the leaves will start to curl and look unhealthy. Eventually, you will see browning, and the plant probably will die.

On the other hand, we need to talk about the effects of over-watering a plant. For a plant to have healthy top growth above the ground, it is key the plant has a healthy root system below the ground.

We know the green leaves and the top part of a plant need carbon dioxide. The root systems need oxygen to survive. This is why we aerate yards and use planting medians for plants that are light and airy and feel fluffy.

Make sure the root system will get the oxygen it needs. When you hear people say their plants just got too much water and they drowned, it really was not because they got too much water, but rather there was so much water the roots could not get oxygen and the plant suffocated.

Research the plants you want to grow, find out how much water they require, and follow the directions.

Other factors also play into the amount of watering: climate, stage of growth, the soil type (whether you have clay or silt will make a difference) and many more. When considering how much watering is needed, remember to keep in mind water is important to the environment, and we need to conserve water to the best of our ability.

Don’t water if it is not needed. If your plants are properly watered, they do not need extra water. Help conserve our water for the future.

If you have any questions about watering plants, call me at the Miami County Extension office, 294-4306.