Do you think of watering as a chore or a chance to potter about mindfully, checking on your plants? I suppose it can be either, depending on what other tasks you have to juggle at the time, but I’d like to suggest that increasing your use of the humble watering can will help nudge it towards the latter.
To be sure, there are times when only a good powerful hose will do – if you have large areas of new planting to cover, or a new hedge or trees, for instance. You’d need an army of Oompa-Loompas to do all that with a watering can. But when there are only a few new plants, or seasonal containers to water, I’m inclined to reach for the watering can first of all. It’s a slower, more meditative way of doing things, and keeps you more connected with what’s growing in your garden and more aware of how they’re doing. This connection with the plants and the soil is surely one of the best benefits of gardening. As you wait for your can to fill up from the tap, you can stop and look and listen to the singing, buzzing and general garden activity that’s going on around you. And if you’re the clumsy sort like me that manages to smack themselves in the face with a hose on full power, it can save you from getting drenched as well as the plants.
Plastic cans are light and handy, but you can’t beat an old- fashioned metal one – and I’m reliably informed by my cats that the taste of water from a metal can on a hot day is far superior, so I try and remember to leave mine full up when I’m not using it. The one in the picture is by Gro-Zone from Fernhill Garden Centre in Athlone, and the upright shape makes it easier for me to carry when nearly full – but like secateurs or spades, there’s one out there to suit everyone. So why not think about slowing down this summer and giving the can-can a try?
Anne’s Tip of the Week:
The ‘rose’ on your watering can – the part that fits on the spout with tiny holes – is only needed for watering seedlings, who need only a delicate sprinkling to prevent them being washed away. For pots and larger plants, remove it – most are detatchable – for easier watering.
Anne Byrne Garden Design provides easy to follow Garden Plans that you can implement right away or in stages. Anne’s design flair and passion for plants brings a touch of magic to gardens of all sizes.
Anne Byrne Garden Design – Creative Ideas – Practical Solutions – Stunning Gardens
T: 086 683 8098 E: [email protected] www.annebyrnegardendesign.com
