If you want to keep your plants alive, there are a few things you have to do: give them light, feed them now and then, and – of course – water them.
Sounds easy right? Then why doesn’t your plant collection look like it’s getting enough water? The answer is easy, overhead watering may not be saturating your plant’s soil. The solution: Try bottom watering.
what is it?
Bottom watering plants is a method of watering that waters potted plants from the bottom up. The plant is placed in a tray or container of water and absorbs water via capillary action through the holes in the bottom of the pot.
Instead of dumping liquid onto the top of the soil of your container plants, you allow the soil to soak it up into its roots from the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.
is bottom watering better for your plants?
Bottom watering helps you to avoid drowning your plants in their pot. The soil will only absorb as much moisture as it can hold. It also prevents certain pests, because the top layer of soil will stay dry when watering your plant.
can you over water by bottom watering?
Yes, if the plant is sitting in water too long, you can still overwater your plant through bottom watering. However, bottom watering is a more controlled method of watering your plants. Just make sure your plant is in a nursery pot or a pot with drainage holes.
how to bottom water:
Fill a large bowl or saucer with water.
Remove your plant from its planter (but keep it in the nursery pot).
Let the plant sit in the bowl/saucer for about 15 minutes.
PRO TIP
If you’re finding that your plants are bigger than any bowl you have, you can fill a nursery tray or even your kitchen sink with water to sit your plant in.
benefits of bottom watering:
Less pests because the top layer of soil doesn’t get too wet.
Thorough and even water intake
Less chance of damage to your home from spills from the watering can
Patio season is coming to a close and it’s time to prep your garden for next year.
Taking the time now to clean up your garden will make a HUGE difference next spring. Not sure where to start? Use this checklist to prep your garden for next year.
Do you have any tips or tricks you use to make sure your garden is primed for the next spring? Share your knowledge with the community in the Plant Chat.
New to gardening? No problem-o. You can start your own dream garden with these 10 easy-to-follow tips.
1
location, location, location.
Starting a garden is just like real estate, it’s all about location. Place your garden where you’ll see it regularly, you’ll want to admire it and watch for any unwanted activity. That way, you’ll be much more likely to spend time in it.
2
let the sunshine in, or should you?
Misjudging sunlight is a common when you’re first learning to garden. Watch the sun at different parts of the day to see how it plays through your yard before choosing a spot for your garden. If you plan on planting edibles like vegetables, herbs, and fruits, they need at least 6 hours of sun in order to thrive.
3
refresh your plants.
One of the best gardening tips is to plan your new garden near a water source. Make sure a hose is close to your garden site, that way you don’t have to lug water each time your plants get thirsty. An easy way to tell if plants need watering is to push a finger an inch down into the soil (that’s about one knuckle deep). If it’s dry, time to get out the hose.
4
starting at the bottom now we’re here.
When you first start a garden, the most important piece of advice is to invest in soil that’s nutrient-rich and well-drained. You can do this by using the right blend by mixing 3 inches of Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil into the top 6 to 8 inches of existing soil if you’re planning to plant in the ground.
5
contain yourself.
When space is at a premium, you can use containers to make the most of it. Many plants thrive in pots, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, fruit trees, berries, and shrubs. Make sure when gardening in containers, the pot is large enough for the plant it’s hosting, and fill it with Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix. It’s specially formulated to help plants in pots thrive, and it also helps protect against over- and under-watering.
6
your perfect match.
It’s important to select plants that match your growing conditions. This means putting sun-loving plants in a sunny spot, and giving ground dwelling vines like pumpkins and melons ample elbow room (or a trellis to climb). Do your homework and choose varieties that will grow well in your environment with the space you have. Instead of trying to grow from seeds get a head start with vigorous young plants.
7
learn your frost dates.
Timing is everything. Planting too early (or late) in the season can spell disaster for your garden. You’ll need to know the last average spring frost date for your area so you don’t accidentally kill plants by putting them out too soon. Another date to make note of is your first average fall frost date so that you get your plants harvested or moved indoors before late-season cold damages them.
8
mulch, your secret weapon.
Layer it on. Apply a layer of mulch that’s 2 to 3 inches deep around each plant. Mulch will go to work reducing weeds by blocking out the sun, and reducing moisture loss through evaporation, so you have to water less. For a polished look, put down a layer of Scotts® Nature Scapes® bagged mulch. You can also use straw, shredded leaves, pine straw, or other locally available materials.
9
feed me.
A great start to your garden starts with great soil, but that soil works best with regular boosts of high-quality nutrition for your plants. In other words, great soil + top-notch plant food = super garden success! So, a month after planting, begin feeding your garden with plant food like Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food. Be sure to follow label directions.
Saving time and money while giving your garden the best chance to flourish is not impossible. An easy solution is also a natural one and the best way to feed your plants. It’s mulch! Nothing says Spring is near quite like a freshly mulched yard. Mulch isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s beneficial to your plants and soils. Here are just 6 of the top reasons you should mulch this Spring:
1
location, location, location.
Starting a garden is just like real estate, it’s all about location. Place your garden where you’ll see it regularly, you’ll want to admire it and watch for any unwanted activity. That way, you’ll be much more likely to spend time in it.
2
let the sunshine in, or should you?
Misjudging sunlight is a common when you’re first learning to garden. Watch the sun at different parts of the day to see how it plays through your yard before choosing a spot for your garden. If you plan on planting edibles like vegetables, herbs, and fruits, they need at least 6 hours of sun in order to thrive.
3
refresh your plants.
One of the best gardening tips is to plan your new garden near a water source. Make sure a hose is close to your garden site, that way you don’t have to lug water each time your plants get thirsty. An easy way to tell if plants need watering is to push a finger an inch down into the soil (that’s about one knuckle deep). If it’s dry, time to get out the hose.
4
starting at the bottom now we’re here.
When you first start a garden, the most important piece of advice is to invest in soil that’s nutrient-rich and well-drained. You can do this by using the right blend by mixing 3 inches of Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil into the top 6 to 8 inches of existing soil if you’re planning to plant in the ground.
5
contain yourself.
When space is at a premium, you can use containers to make the most of it. Many plants thrive in pots, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, fruit trees, berries, and shrubs. Make sure when gardening in containers, the pot is large enough for the plant it’s hosting, and fill it with Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix. It’s specially formulated to help plants in pots thrive, and it also helps protect against over- and under-watering.
6
your perfect match.
It’s important to select plants that match your growing conditions. This means putting sun-loving plants in a sunny spot, and giving ground dwelling vines like pumpkins and melons ample elbow room (or a trellis to climb). Do your homework and choose varieties that will grow well in your environment with the space you have. Instead of trying to grow from seeds get a head start with vigorous young plants.
7
learn your frost dates.
Timing is everything. Planting too early (or late) in the season can spell disaster for your garden. You’ll need to know the last average spring frost date for your area so you don’t accidentally kill plants by putting them out too soon. Another date to make note of is your first average fall frost date so that you get your plants harvested or moved indoors before late-season cold damages them.
8
mulch, your secret weapon.
Layer it on. Apply a layer of mulch that’s 2 to 3 inches deep around each plant. Mulch will go to work reducing weeds by blocking out the sun, and reducing moisture loss through evaporation, so you have to water less. For a polished look, put down a layer of Scotts® Nature Scapes® bagged mulch. You can also use straw, shredded leaves, pine straw, or other locally available materials.
9
feed me.
A great start to your garden starts with great soil, but that soil works best with regular boosts of high-quality nutrition for your plants. In other words, great soil + top-notch plant food = super garden success! So, a month after planting, begin feeding your garden with plant food like Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food. Be sure to follow label directions.
Be mindful of how much you mulch as it can create a layer that doesn’t decompose or allow for root growth. The soil can actually become so compacted water and nutrients can’t get down to the roots. You can avoid this by stripping off as much of the old mulch and adding a fresh layer every year. Keep your mulch around 3 inches deep, and keep it away from the trunk of trees or shrubs.
Knowing when and how to water your potted plants is an easy way to ensure your house plants are happy and thrive in your home. Here are a few simple dos and don’ts to keep in mind when it comes to watering your botanical buddy.
pick a pot that is the right size for your plant and has good drainage holes.
DO
understand the unique needs of your plants. Succulents are desert plants and like to be kept on the drier side.They are susceptible to rot if over watered. Tropicals like to be kept moist. Some other types like to dry out between watering sessions. It’s all very personal.
DO
consider seasonality. Plants tend to take it easy in the winter, as a result they require less water. Spring and summeris a whole new ball game, that’s when your plant uses all its energy to grow.
DON’T
let water sit. Dump out any excess water. To prevent rot, water thoroughly and let the water run fully out of the pot, then discard the excess water to avoid soggy soil.
DON’T
water the leaves. We’ve said this a million times. When you’re watering your plant, avoid watering from overhead. Aim that watering can below the leaves and at the soil. This helps prevent bacterial and fungal infections.
DON’T
favour one side of the plant. Your plant may have it’s good side but to keep your plant friend full and lush, evenly water around the whole pot.
QUICK TIP
House plants love music! A bopping playlist also encourages growth.
Babies don’t come with instructions but plant babies do. Even with instructions, you may still have some questions on doing right by your plant. We’ve got you covered with some basic houseplant do’s and don’ts.
pick a pot that is the right size for your plant and has good drainage holes.
DO
understand the unique needs of your plants. Succulents are desert plants and like to be kept on the drier side.They are susceptible to rot if over watered. Tropicals like to be kept moist. Some other types like to dry out between watering sessions. It’s all very personal.
DO
consider seasonality. Plants tend to take it easy in the winter, as a result they require less water. Spring and summeris a whole new ball game, that’s when your plant uses all its energy to grow.
DON’T
let water sit. Dump out any excess water. To prevent rot, water thoroughly and let the water run fully out of the pot, then discard the excess water to avoid soggy soil.
DON’T
water the leaves. We’ve said this a million times. When you’re watering your plant, avoid watering from overhead. Aim that watering can below the leaves and at the soil. This helps prevent bacterial and fungal infections.
DON’T
favour one side of the plant. Your plant may have it’s good side but to keep your plant friend full and lush, evenly water around the whole pot.
QUICK TIP
Plants love a fresh dose of potting mix, so re-pot every year right before the warm-weather growing season.
There you are bringing home a new plant, you’re full of hope and promise. You feed and nurture it but after a while you notice the leaves are turning brown and crispy. Let’s look at a few reasons this could be happening to your plant baby.
1
location, location, location.
Starting a garden is just like real estate, it’s all about location. Place your garden where you’ll see it regularly, you’ll want to admire it and watch for any unwanted activity. That way, you’ll be much more likely to spend time in it.
2
let the sunshine in, or should you?
Misjudging sunlight is a common when you’re first learning to garden. Watch the sun at different parts of the day to see how it plays through your yard before choosing a spot for your garden. If you plan on planting edibles like vegetables, herbs, and fruits, they need at least 6 hours of sun in order to thrive.
3
refresh your plants.
One of the best gardening tips is to plan your new garden near a water source. Make sure a hose is close to your garden site, that way you don’t have to lug water each time your plants get thirsty. An easy way to tell if plants need watering is to push a finger an inch down into the soil (that’s about one knuckle deep). If it’s dry, time to get out the hose.
4
starting at the bottom now we’re here.
When you first start a garden, the most important piece of advice is to invest in soil that’s nutrient-rich and well-drained. You can do this by using the right blend by mixing 3 inches of Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil into the top 6 to 8 inches of existing soil if you’re planning to plant in the ground.
5
contain yourself.
When space is at a premium, you can use containers to make the most of it. Many plants thrive in pots, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, fruit trees, berries, and shrubs. Make sure when gardening in containers, the pot is large enough for the plant it’s hosting, and fill it with Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix. It’s specially formulated to help plants in pots thrive, and it also helps protect against over- and under-watering.
6
your perfect match.
It’s important to select plants that match your growing conditions. This means putting sun-loving plants in a sunny spot, and giving ground dwelling vines like pumpkins and melons ample elbow room (or a trellis to climb). Do your homework and choose varieties that will grow well in your environment with the space you have. Instead of trying to grow from seeds get a head start with vigorous young plants.
7
learn your frost dates.
Timing is everything. Planting too early (or late) in the season can spell disaster for your garden. You’ll need to know the last average spring frost date for your area so you don’t accidentally kill plants by putting them out too soon. Another date to make note of is your first average fall frost date so that you get your plants harvested or moved indoors before late-season cold damages them.
8
mulch, your secret weapon.
Layer it on. Apply a layer of mulch that’s 2 to 3 inches deep around each plant. Mulch will go to work reducing weeds by blocking out the sun, and reducing moisture loss through evaporation, so you have to water less. For a polished look, put down a layer of Scotts® Nature Scapes® bagged mulch. You can also use straw, shredded leaves, pine straw, or other locally available materials.
9
feed me.
A great start to your garden starts with great soil, but that soil works best with regular boosts of high-quality nutrition for your plants. In other words, great soil + top-notch plant food = super garden success! So, a month after planting, begin feeding your garden with plant food like Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food. Be sure to follow label directions.
There are so many great reasons for growing houseplants, but deciding exactly where to put them can get tricky and sometimes even confusing.
sun lovers
Sunlight is the number one requirement for indoor plants. All plants need light, but the amount varies substantially. Although some plants, including certain types of cactus and succulents, need bright sunlight, most prefer more moderate, less intense light. Bright, indirect light, such as from an east-facing window, is good for many plants. If your windows face west or south, you may need to move the plants away from the window or soften the intensity with sheer drapes or a light curtain. Now get out your compass and find that east facing window
the low lighters
Pothos, Maidenhair Fern, Snake Plants, Prayer Plants and Lucky Bamboo do well in low light conditions.
Here are a few tips on where to put your plants: Spreading plants around the perimeter and away from the center of the room can make the space appear larger. For instance, place plants on shelves, window sills, or in corners. Hanging plants are back, but it’s essential to find the best spot. Avoid hanging a plant where guests can bump their heads. Be sure the plant is safely anchored, preferably not above a walkway or chair.
Remember that you’ll need to water the plant, so consider how the pot drains. Look at surfaces and architecture around your home in creative ways. If you have space, set plants on the rungs of an old wooden ladder or on top of a cupboard. People often forget that heat rises so plants in high spots may require more water. If plants are at eye level, cover the potting mix with decorative stones or pebbles. Don’t forget plants in the bathrooms. Succulents won’t be happy with all that steamy air, but, philodendron, spider plant, pothos, and most ferns, will thrive in the warmth and humidity.
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