How often should you water garden plants?
Most garden plants in the UK need watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather, soil type, and plant needs. During hot spells or dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, especially for containers and newly planted flowers.
In Surrey, where clay soils and variable weather are common, the key is to water deeply and consistently — not necessarily frequently. However, frequency depends on soil type, plant species, age, and recent weather conditions. This guide from us at Green Gardens explains how to get it right — so your garden can thrive with minimal waste and maximum results.
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What Affects Watering Frequency?
Before deciding how often to water your garden, it's important to understand the key factors that influence plant hydration. Soil type, plant maturity, and weather conditions all play a major role in how much water your plants actually need. Here are the main variables to consider:
Soil type
- Clay soils hold water longer; sandy soils dry out quickly.
- Surrey often has clay-heavy soil, so adjust watering accordingly.
Plant maturity
- New plants and trees need more frequent watering while establishing roots.
- Mature shrubs and perennials typically need less.
Weather conditions
- Hot, dry, or windy weather increases evaporation.
- Water more frequently during prolonged dry spells or heatwaves.
- Rainfall in Surrey can be unpredictable — check soil moisture regularly, even after light showers.
Plant type
- Lawns, flowers, and veg need more frequent water than drought-tolerant shrubs.
- Woody perennials and native shrubs often tolerate dry spells better once established.
- Containers and baskets dry out faster than in-ground plants.
Watering Guidelines For UK Gardens
While every plant and garden is different, general watering rules can be a useful starting point.
Lawns
- Water once a week with a deep soak.
- Early morning watering reduces evaporation and supports root growth.
Bedding Plants & Annuals
- Water 2–3 times per week.
- Focus on the base of the plant; avoid wetting leaves to reduce disease.
Shrubs & Perennials
- Water every 5–7 days.
- Deep watering helps roots grow deeper and stronger.
Pots, Baskets & Containers
- Water daily in hot weather; check soil moisture with your finger.
- Add mulch or water-retaining gel to reduce frequency.
Newly Planted Trees & Shrubs
- Water 2–3 times a week for the first few months.
- Use a slow trickle for deep, even soaking.
Signs Your Garden Plants Need Water
Not sure when to water? Your plants will often tell you — if you know what to look for. Here are the most common signs that your garden plants may be thirsty, along with simple ways to check soil moisture before you reach for the hosepipe.
Wilting or drooping leaves
Common in bedding plants and veg; a sign of water stress.
Dry or cracked soil
A sign of long-term drought — check moisture 2–3 inches below the surface.
Yellowing or browning leaves
Can signal either over-watering or drought – feel the soil to check.
Slow growth or fewer flowers
Inconsistent watering stresses plants and affects performance.
Lightweight pots
Lift containers — if they feel light, the soil is likely dry.
How Can You Tell If a Plant Is Overwatered?
Overwatering is just as harmful as underwatering — and in many cases, it's harder to detect. While dry soil is easy to spot, waterlogged roots suffer silently until it's too late. Here's how to identify the warning signs of overwatering:
Yellowing Leaves
One of the most common signs. Leaves may turn pale yellow and drop off, especially from the lower part of the plant.
Wilting Despite Wet Soil
A key giveaway. If your plant is drooping but the soil is moist, the roots may be suffocating or rotting.
Soft, Mushy Stems or Leaves
Fleshy plants (like succulents or bedding plants) develop a soggy texture when cells burst from excess water.
Root Rot Smell
Waterlogged soil can start to smell sour or musty — this means roots are decaying and oxygen is lacking.
Mould or Fungal Growth on Soil Surface
Persistent surface moisture can lead to mould, algae, or white fungal patches around the plant base.
Edema (blisters on leaves)
Some plants develop water blisters or raised bumps when they absorb more water than they can use.
Overwatering Tip from Green Gardens:
If you suspect overwatering, let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Improve drainage by adding grit or compost, and ensure pots have proper drainage holes. We can also help assess your soil health and drainage as part of our garden maintenance service in Surrey.
Best Time of Day to Water Your Garden
When you water is almost as important as how often. Watering at the wrong time can lead to wasted water, stressed plants, or fungal problems. Here's a breakdown of the best times to water your garden to maximise absorption and plant health.
Early Morning (before 10am)
- Best time to water – cooler temps allow better absorption.
- Reduces evaporation and gives plants time to dry before nightfall.
Evening (after 6pm)
Acceptable, especially during heatwaves, but avoid watering foliage late at night to prevent fungal issues.
Avoid midday watering
The water evaporates quickly and may scorch delicate plants in full sun.
Expert Watering Tips from Green Gardens
Looking to improve your watering routine? Our expert team at Green Gardens shares tried-and-tested tips that make watering more efficient, sustainable, and beneficial for your garden. These small changes can make a big difference.
Mulch flower beds and borders
- Add organic mulch around beds and borders to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Also suppresses weeds that compete for water.
Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation
Drip irrigation or soaker hoses ensure deep, even watering with minimal waste.
Water deeply, not daily
Encourages roots to grow deeper, making plants more resilient during dry spells.
Group plants with similar watering needs
Helps ensure every area of the garden gets appropriate care.
Harvest rainwater
Use water butts to collect rain from your roof or shed — an eco-friendly, free resource.
Let Green Gardens handle it for you!
Green Gardens can take care of watering, mulching, and overall garden maintenance year-round.
Read our guide to spring gardening here!
Watering Advice for Surrey Gardens
Gardening in Surrey comes with its own challenges — especially when it comes to watering. Heavy clay soils, variable rainfall, and seasonal dry spells all affect how your plants respond to water. Here's how to adapt your watering habits to local conditions.
Know your soil
- Many Surrey gardens sit on heavy clay, which stays wet longer but risks waterlogging.
- Improve soil drainage with organic matter like compost or leaf mould.
Surrey's weather patterns
Rainfall varies widely across the county — don't assume light rain means your plants are hydrated.
Dry spring? Water early.
Many Surrey gardens experience dry spring conditions. Deep watering early in the season helps build strong root systems before summer.
Green Gardens is local
Our team understands Surrey gardens inside out — we tailor watering and maintenance to your garden's conditions.
Watering is about quality, not just quantity.
With the right timing, method, and frequency, you can create a vibrant garden that's both beautiful and water-efficient. Whether you're managing a large garden in Guildford or a shaded border in Dorking, proper watering makes all the difference.
Want help keeping your garden in top shape?
Get in touch with our gardeners in Surrey for tailored garden maintenance and expert watering support.
Or call us on 01372 851050 or 01403 283900
