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Watering container annuals can sometimes be a little tricky, especially if it is a variety of plants in one container.  When making combination pots, it is best to keep in mind the water and light requirements of each plant.  Putting the wrong combination together can have unsatisfactory results.  With most annuals, giving a thorough watering, then allowing the soil to begin drying before re-watering is a good rule. 

 

Some common annuals that are sensitive to over-watering are:  Alyssum, Bacopa, Begonias (all), Celosia, Cuphea, Dusty Miller, Evovulous, Fuchsia, Gazania, Geraniums, Lisianthus, Lobelia, Mexican Heather, Millionbells, Poppies, Portulaca (Rose Moss), Snapdragons, Statice, Strawflowers, Tithonia, Torenia, Verbena, and Zinnias.

 

Some common annuals that are easily damaged by under-watering are: Alyssum, Dusty Miller, Petunias, Strawflowers, and Verbena (all).

 

Watering hanging pouches can be a real chore.  The top gets wet, but the bottom wilts.  The best way to water a pouch is to pull the bottom of the pouch out at an angle, then water at a low rate, behind the top plant.  Continue watering until water drips out of the bottom drain holes.  Sometimes an indention, or a trench in the soil down the back of the pouch can help.  Running your hand down the back outside of the pouch can do this.  After this is done, a few times the trench should stay and watering is easier. 

 

When watering baskets, it is best to water under the foliage and blooms as much as possible.  Always check the soil before watering, either by lifting the basket to check its weight or by feeling the soil.  This may seem time consuming, especially if there are many containers and baskets to water, but after a few times watering and realizing what the plant is actually using, this doesn't have to be done every time.  Most plants in baskets and containers die because of their owners watering practices. This can be avoided if good practices are learned.

 

No matter what container the plants are in, light and temperature will affect how much water a plant will require.  On dry, hot, windy days, a plant will require more water than on a cool, cloudy day.

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