Do you know How to Water Seedlings Properly? Your watering routine can make or break your young plants, so don’t skip these tips and tricks!
Young plants have tender roots, so you have to watch the watering. This can be a bit tricky for beginners and new gardeners, sometimes even old ones. But don’t worry—we’ll teach you how to water seedlings the right way so they turn into healthy plants.
How Much is Too Much (and Not Enough)?
Before we begin, you need to know how much is enough. We don’t want our seedlings parched, but we also don’t want them to drown in water. So, the happy medium is moist soil. Remember, moist, not soggy.
Put the seedling pot to the test. Touch the layer of the soil and if it feels a bit dry, it’s watering time! If you don’t want to get dirt on your fingers, pay attention to the seedlings. If they’re droopy and tired with wilting leaves, they need a drink. On the other hand, if they are turning yellow or mushy, you’re giving them too much water.
Pro Tip: It’s always better to underwater slightly than drown your seedlings. Underwatered seedlings perk up quickly with a good drink, but overwatered ones can develop fungal diseases and become goners.
How to Water Seedlings Properly?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to watering seedlings. The best method to water them can be selected by knowing the size and type of your seedlings. Plus, the pot they are in.
1. Gentle Misting for Young Seedlings
For the tiny pots with seedlings that have just germinated, you should give a gentle mist from a spray bottle. Kind of like the morning dew drops to refresh the seedling. Do this once in a day or two.
2. Watering Can for Mature Ones
You can use a small watering can for seedlings that have been established for a while. Here’s a trick: Add a rose attachment to the can, and you’ll have the best tool for watering seedlings. It will make it slow and won’t soak the soil too much.
3. Bottom Watering the Seedlings
If you’ve already grown them in a pot with a drainage hole, go with bottom watering. Just take a shallow tray, fill it with water, and place the pot on it. Slowly, the soil will soak up the water it needs from the bottom and will not overwater.
Pro Tip: Always use room temperature water for watering. Cold water can shock your delicate seedlings.
Tips and Tricks to Water Seedlings
Now that you’re a watering pro, here are some bonus tips to keep your seedlings happy and healthy.
- Seedlings need good air circulation along with moist soil, so you shouldn’t overcrowd them in trays. One in one small pot would be a good idea.
- If you’re growing seedlings on a windowsill or outdoors, the bright sun will dry these out faster, so you’ll have to adjust the watering frequency.
- You have to be consistent. Seedlings thrive on routine, so follow the same schedule and check on them daily. Water them when they need it.
With a little practice and these helpful tips, you’ll be watering your young sprouts like a seasoned pro in no time. Remember, happy watering equals happy seedlings and a thriving garden (and maybe even those homegrown salsa nights you were dreaming of).
