How Often Should You Water Pansies?
How Often Should You Water Pansies?. Pansies come in so many colors and sizes that you surely have someplace for them in your garden. They also require little care and maintenance, making them a good choice for beginning gardeners and experts alike. Pansies do need a good dose of water once planted, and you may need to supplement rainfall during...
Pansies come in so many colors and sizes that you surely have someplace for them in your garden. They also require little care and maintenance, making them a good choice for beginning gardeners and experts alike. Pansies do need a good dose of water once planted, and you may need to supplement rainfall during dry spells.
At Planting Time
Pansies need a thorough watering immediately after they are set in the soil so they can begin to establish their roots, according to the Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture. Thoroughly moisten the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, taking care not to damage the plant with a strong stream of water. You want the soil to be moist but not saturated, because that can inhibit the plant's growth. Check the soil regularly for the first three weeks after planting time and supplement water if it feels dry.
During the Growing Season
Pansies need about 1 inch of water each week during the growing season. In many cases, rainfall in your area may meet the flowers needs. You will need to water the plants all spring and summer during dry spells. Avoid watering the plants in the late afternoon or evening, when the heat can cause much of the moisture to quickly evaporate, the West Virginia University Extension Service advises.
When Fertilizing
Water your pansies after fertilizing them, the Utah State University Cooperative Extension advises. This allows the fertilizer to seep down into the soil and more easily reach the plant roots, yielding healthier and more vibrant blooms. When fertilizing pansies, use a 5-10-5 fertilizer. Repeat the application every three to four weeks for as long as the pansies are blooming.
Other Tips
In addition to proper and ample waterings, you can utilize other techniques to improve the appearance of your pansies. First, plant them in a spot where they get full sun, unless you have a variety that prefers partial shade. Planting in a raised bed also can be beneficial for pansies. Once the flowers begin to bloom, deadhead the spent blooms regularly to extend the blossoming period and add more vibrancy to the pansies.
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