From my perspective as a potted Daphne, my watering needs are dictated by the environment of my roots. Unlike my cousins in the ground, I cannot send my roots out in search of moisture. I am entirely dependent on the water you provide, contained within the limited soil of my pot. My roots crave moisture but abhor stagnation. The single most important concept for my survival is achieving a balance: the soil should be kept consistently moist like a well-wrung-out sponge, but never sopping wet or, conversely, bone dry. My fine roots are exceptionally sensitive and will quickly rot if left sitting in water, yet they will also desiccate and die if allowed to dry out completely.
You cannot simply water me on a fixed calendar schedule, such as every Tuesday. My thirst is influenced by several dynamic factors. The season is paramount. During my active growth and flowering periods in spring and early summer, I am using tremendous amounts of water and nutrients. I will need frequent watering. In the heat of summer, evaporation from my pot and transpiration from my leaves will be high, demanding even more vigilance. Conversely, in the dormant winter months, my growth nearly halts. My water requirements drop significantly, and overwatering during this time is a grave danger.
Other factors include the weather (sunny and windy days dry my pot out faster than cool, cloudy ones), the size and material of my pot (terracotta breathes and dries out faster than plastic or glazed ceramic), and the composition of my soil (a well-draining, acidic mix is essential for me). My size and overall health also play a role; a larger, leafier plant will drink more than a smaller one.
The most reliable way to know if I need water is to physically check my soil's moisture level. Please do not just glance at the surface, as it can be deceptive and dry out first. Push your finger about one to two inches into the soil near my base. This is the crucial root zone. What does it feel like? If the soil at that depth feels cool and slightly moist, I am perfectly content, and you should check again in a day or two. If it feels dry to the touch and your finger comes out clean, that is my signal that I am ready for a drink. This is the perfect time to water me.
When I need water, please provide it thoroughly and deeply. Apply water slowly to the surface of my soil, avoiding wetting my leaves and flowers if possible, as this can encourage disease. Continue watering until you see a trickle of water escape from the drainage holes at the bottom of my pot. This ensures that the entire root ball has been moistened. It is critical that any excess water is allowed to drain away completely. Never let me sit in a saucer full of water, as this will suffocate my roots and lead to my rapid decline. Empty the saucer about 20 minutes after watering.
