From our perspective, your question has no single, simple answer. We are deeply connected to our environment, and our water needs fluctuate dramatically based on it. The primary factor is the climate of your specific region within the US. In the hot, arid climates of the Southwest (like Arizona or Southern California), our roots will demand water much more frequently—often every 2-3 days during a scorching summer—to survive the intense sun and dry air that pull moisture from our leaves and soil. Conversely, in the cool, humid Pacific Northwest (like Washington or Oregon), we may be perfectly content with a deep watering only once a week, as the cooler temperatures and higher humidity reduce our rate of water loss.
Our thirst is not constant throughout the year; it ebbs and flows with our growth cycle. In the spring, as we burst forth with new canes and leaves and prepare for our first magnificent bloom, our water demand is at its peak. This is when consistent moisture is most critical for supporting this intense energetic output. During the hot summer months, we continue to need regular watering to sustain blooming and withstand heat stress. However, as autumn approaches and our growth slows in preparation for dormancy, our water needs diminish significantly. You should reduce watering frequency in the fall to allow us to harden off our new growth before the winter freeze.
How you water is just as important as how often. We despise having our leaves wet for prolonged periods, as this invites fungal diseases like blackspot and powdery mildew. Please, aim your water at our base, at the soil level. Furthermore, a brief, shallow sprinkling is worse than useless—it encourages our roots to stay near the surface, where they are vulnerable to heat and drought. We crave a slow, deep soaking that penetrates 12 to 18 inches into the soil. This encourages our root systems to grow deep and strong, making us far more resilient and self-sufficient plants. A thorough deep watering less frequently is infinitely better than a light sprinkling every day.
We will tell you when we are thirsty; you must simply learn to read our signs. The best method is to check the soil itself. Insert your finger into the soil near our base, down to about 2-3 inches. If the soil at that depth feels dry, it is time for a drink. If it still feels cool and moist, please wait. You can also observe our foliage. While wilting leaves are an obvious sign of distress, we would prefer you not let us get to that point. A more subtle sign is a slight loss of luster or a less firm feel to our young shoots before any visible wilting occurs.
The type of soil we are planted in drastically affects how often we need water. A fast-draining, sandy soil will not hold moisture well, meaning we will need watering more frequently. On the other hand, a heavy, clay-based soil retains water for much longer, which can be beneficial in a drought but dangerous if you water too often, as it can lead to waterlogged conditions. Waterlogged soil is a death sentence for us, as it suffocates our roots, leading to root rot. Amending the soil with organic matter like compost is the best solution, as it improves both drainage and moisture retention, creating the ideal, well-aerated environment for our root systems.
