What time of day do plants absorb the most water?

Plants absorb the most water during the morning hours. "Lower morning temperatures reduce evaporation, ensuring that more water penetrates the soil and is available to the roots," says Vazquez. Plus, plants store water beginning in the morning to later photosynthesis and combat midday heat stress, she adds.

Is it bad to water plants at midday?

Watering midday is not recommended. "It’s wasteful of water, as most of it evaporates before reaching the roots," says Vazquez. Also, the temperature difference between cold water and hot soil can shock plants, potentially stressing them further.

What kind of water should you use to water plants?

Rainwater is the best possible water, even for indoor plants. "It contains dissolved minerals and hasn’t been treated with chlorine or any other additives that might be harmful to your plants," says Burke. Filtered water is also a suitable choice, is it removes contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals that can harm sensitive plants.

How do you know if you've over or underwatered a plant?

Signs of overwatering include leaves turning yellow, mildewing, or rotting. "You may find insects like ants in the soil because they’re drawn there by the moisture," says Burke. Signs of underwatering include wilted leaves or leaves with brown spots. "The soil surface will be dry and cracked," says, Vasquez. "It might even pull away from the edge of the pot or container."

The Worst Time to Water Indoor and Outdoor Plants, According to Gardening Experts

Experts agree that you should never water plants at these times of day or year.

By

Michelle Mastro

Published on December 31, 2024

Person watering plant — Photo:
Getty Images

Plants need water to live, and knowing when to water them is essential to maintaining their health. The timing of when you water plants impacts how effectively they can absorb water. But just as important as knowing when to water plants is knowing when not to water them. To keep your indoor and outdoor plants healthy and prevent root rot, we spoke to several expert gardeners who shared the worst time and season to water plants.

Andrew Porwol, a garden and landscape expert and the founder of Sapcote Garden Centre
Ariel Vazquez, TeachMe.To gardening expert and owner of Thyme & Sage Creations LLC.
Nicole Johnsey Burke, founder and CEO of Gardenary Inc. and author of Kitchen Garden Revival, Leaves, Roots & Fruit

Worst Time to Water Outdoor Plants

The worst time of day to water outdoor plants is in the middle of the afternoon during hot and sunny weather. "During this time, the heat and sun cause water to evaporate quickly, reducing the amount that reaches the plant’s roots," says Andrew Porwol, the founder of Sapcote Garden Centre. Plus, water droplets on leaves can work as magnifying glasses, causing the leaves to burn.

The worst season to water outdoor plants is during freezing winter weather when temperatures can be below freezing. "Watering at this time can lead to water freezing around the roots or on leaves, which damages the plant," says Porwol. Additionally, many plants go dormant during winter and require less water.

Worst Time to Water Indoor Plants

The time of day or season you water indoor plants doesn't matter as much. Generally, you should avoid watering houseplants in the evening when there is no sunlight. And, like outdoor plants, houseplants don't need as much water in winter. "Indoor environments are generally climate-controlled," says Ariel Vazquez, TeachMe.To gardening expert. "In winter, lower light levels and cooler indoor temperatures—depending on home heating habits—slow plant growth, reducing water needs," she says. As with outdoor plants, overwatering in winter can lead to drowning the plant or root rot and fungal issues.

Tips for Watering Plants the Right Way

Keep these tips in mind when watering your plants.

Water at the Right Time

It’s always best to water your plants early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. "This enables plants to absorb the water before the heat of the day evaporates and also ensures foliage has time to dry," says Porwol.

Water Deeply and Infrequently

Give your plants a deep drink of water, says Porwol. This encourages the plant’s roots to grow downward, helping them become more drought-resistant. "Avoid shallow or frequent watering, as it promotes weak and surface-level roots," he says.

Check Soil Moisture Before Watering

Avoid watering on a set schedule. Instead, plant experts say to check the soil’s moisture level before watering, which ensures you give your plants the right amount of water. "Stick your index finger in the soil to check for moisture," says Nicole Johnsey Burke, founder and CEO of Gardenary Inc. "Only water if the soil feels dry down to your second knuckle."

Remove Trays Under Houseplants When Watering

If your potted plants sit on top of a saucer or tray, let the water completely drain out of the drainage hole before returning to the drip trays or saucers, says Burke. Plants can become waterlogged if they sit in excess water.

Use the Right Watering Tools

The right tools can help when watering outdoor plants. "I recommend investing in a water wand for the end of your hose," says Burke. Such a watering device will allow you to deliver the correct amount of water to the base of your plants. "Set your spray attachment to the softest setting possible so you can imitate gentle rain," she says.

When in doubt, use a watering can. Watering cans are great for small gardens. "Just use your free hand to hold the plant’s leaves out of the way and hold the spout as close to the soil as possible," says Burke.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time of day do plants absorb the most water?

Plants absorb the most water during the morning hours. "Lower morning temperatures reduce evaporation, ensuring that more water penetrates the soil and is available to the roots," says Vazquez. Plus, plants store water beginning in the morning to later photosynthesis and combat midday heat stress, she adds.
Is it bad to water plants at midday?

Watering midday is not recommended. "It’s wasteful of water, as most of it evaporates before reaching the roots," says Vazquez. Also, the temperature difference between cold water and hot soil can shock plants, potentially stressing them further.
What kind of water should you use to water plants?

Rainwater is the best possible water, even for indoor plants. "It contains dissolved minerals and hasn’t been treated with chlorine or any other additives that might be harmful to your plants," says Burke. Filtered water is also a suitable choice, is it removes contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals that can harm sensitive plants.
How do you know if you've over or underwatered a plant?

Signs of overwatering include leaves turning yellow, mildewing, or rotting. "You may find insects like ants in the soil because they’re drawn there by the moisture," says Burke. Signs of underwatering include wilted leaves or leaves with brown spots. "The soil surface will be dry and cracked," says, Vasquez. "It might even pull away from the edge of the pot or container."