When I first started irrigating my farm eight years ago using sprinkler irrigation, I knew almost nothing about it.
About a year later, I realized that frequency does matter in irrigation, and I learned what over-irrigation can do.
Through trial and error, I encountered several myths—or, frankly, misconceptions—about irrigation that can hinder your growth.
Here, I’ve listed some of these myths so you can recognize them and improve your irrigation practices.
Myth #1: Wilting Always Means a Plant Needs Water
It’s a common belief, plant wilting means they need water, but it is not always the case.
Most of the time, plants wilt during the summer, which we think needs water immediately.
The truth:
Apart from water there are also various reasons for wilting you should consider.
Overwatering:
Waterlogged soil can suffocate roots, leading to wilting.
Heat stress:
Plants may wilt temporarily on hot days to conserve water.
Disease:
Certain plant diseases can cause wilting
Transplant shock:
Recently transplanted plants may wilt as they adjust.
It is best to know the soil moisture before watering the wilted plant. If the soil is still damp, investigate other potential causes of wilting.
Myth #2: Watering Plant During Sunny Hours Burn Their Leaves
The idea here is that during midday, when the sun is at its hottest, water droplets act like tiny magnifying glasses, intensifying the sun’s rays and burning the foliage.
The Truth:
While it’s generally, no one recommends irrigating when the sun is up because water evaporates quickly, leading to water loss.
Watering during sunny hours won’t burn your plants’ leaves.
The water droplets evaporate too quickly to cause any significant temperature increase or focusing of sunlight.
Myth #3: More Water Always Leads to Better Growth
Even in hotter environments, the belief that more water always equals better growth is a dangerous myth.
Excessive water can:
- Suffocate roots by displacing oxygen in the soil
- Promote fungal growth and root rot
- Leach essential nutrients from the soil
- Encourage shallow root growth, making plants less drought-resistant
It is better to give water and maintain moisture levels based on each plant’s specific needs and environmental conditions.
Myth #4: You Should Water Plant Every Day
Watering every day can lead to over-irrigation for some plants. The frequency of watering depends on various factors, including:
- Plant type and water requirements
- Soil type and drainage
- Climate and weather conditions
- Season and growth stage of the plant
For deeper root growth and making the plant drought-resistant, infrequent watering is recommended over daily light watering.
Always check soil moisture before watering and adjust your schedule based on your plants’ needs and environmental conditions.
Myth #5: All Plants Have the Same Watering Needs
A common misconception is that all plants in a garden should be watered the same way and on the same schedule.
The Truth:
It depends upon several factors:
- Plant species: Succulents need less water than tropical plants.
- Root depth: Deep-rooted plants may need less frequent watering.
- Growth stage: Seedlings often need more frequent watering than established plants.
- Microclimate: Plants in sunny, windy areas may need more water than those in sheltered spots
For effective irrigation, group the similar plant together and adjust your irrigation plan accordingly.
Myth #6: Drought-Tolerant Plants Never Need Watering
Some growers believe that the once-established, drought-tolerant plant never needs supplemental water.
This is not true—every plant needs water, even drought-tolerant ones.
Drought-tolerant plants can survive with less water, but they still benefit from occasional deep watering, especially during prolonged dry spells.
Drought-tolerant plants can survive with less water, but they still benefit from occasional deep watering, especially during prolonged dry spells.
Regular watering is required during their establishment period (usually the first growing season) to develop a strong root system.
Myth #7: Drip Irrigation Uses Less Water Than Sprinklers
Firstly, it is a comparison between Apples and Oranges. Both irrigation systems have different usage scenarios. However, arguing that drip irrigation is better than sprinklers is a big myth.
The Truth:
Efficiency is gained through water management, for instance, when and how you use water.
A well-designed drip and or sprinkler system should use the same amount of water. To apply 5 mm of water per m2 there’s no difference between the two.
The drip irrigation system is well suited to relatively small garden beds, windy areas, and narrow strip turf. Whereas sprinklers are generally better for turf areas and some types of gardens and crops.
Myth #8: Watering at Night is Best for Plants
Many believe watering at night is best for plants so they have more time to absorb water without sun causing evaporation.
The Truth:
Yes, it will reduce evaporation, but generally not the best practice. Watering at night can:
- Increase the risk of fungal diseases due to prolonged leaf wetness
- Attract nocturnal pests like slugs and snails
- Promote the growth of harmful bacteria in consistently damp conditions
The ideal and perfect time to water plants is in the morning, which allows plants to absorb water before the heat of the day while giving leaves time to dry, reducing disease risk.
Myth #9: Mulch Prevent Water From Reaching Plant Root
Some believe that mulching completely blocks water, reducing evaporation. This isn’t true—well-applied mulch conserves moisture.
The Truth:
To maintain moisture levels and water to reach plant roots, mulching needs to:
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, avoiding piling it against plant stems.
- Water thoroughly after applying mulch.
- For established plants, pull back mulch occasionally to check soil moisture.
Mulching helps conserve soil moisture by:
- Reducing evaporation from the soil surface.
- Moderating soil temperature.
- Suppressing weed growth that would compete for water.
Myth #10: You Can’t Overwater Plant in Container With Drainage Holes
You might think that because a container has drainage holes, it’s impossible to overwater the plants inside.
The Truth:
Even with proper drainage, container plants can be overwatered. Issues can arise because:
- Frequent watering can wash away nutrients.
- The potting mix may retain more water than the plant needs.
- Roots can still become waterlogged if watered too often.
To avoid overwatering, always check soil moisture before watering container plants, and ensure the pot has a well-draining mix.
Myth #11: Brown Grass Always Means It Need More Water
Some panic when they see brown patches in their lawn, assuming it indicates a need for more water.
Well, that’s not completely true, but yes, inadequate water supply can cause brown grass.
The Truth:
Brown grass can also result from
- Dormancy during hot, dry periods (a natural survival mechanism)
- Overwatering and fungal diseases
- Pest infestations
- Soil compaction or poor nutrition
- Dog urine spots
Before increasing the water, investigate the cause of brown patches. In many cases, grass will recover on its own once conditions improve.
Myth #12: Adding Gravel or Rocks to the Bottom of Containers Improves Drainage
It’s a common belief that adding gravel or rocks to the bottom of a container will improve drainage. In reality, it can actually worsen drainage.
Truth:
This practice.
- Reduces the volume of soil available for roots.
- Creates a perched water table, where water collects above the gravel layer.
- Can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot.
Instead of rocks, use these methods for better drainage:
- Use a well-draining potting mix.
- Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.
- Choose the right-sized container for your plants.
Final Word…
Debunking myths about irrigation is crucial for developing effective, efficient watering practices.
Remember, successful irrigation is about understanding your plants’ specific needs and adapting your practices to local environmental conditions.
Don’t be afraid to question conventional wisdom and adjust your watering habits based on observation and research.
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