Our Expertise
Every tree, hedge and plant that comes to you has spent time in our care first, and we like to know they’ll be looked after once they leave us. That’s why we’ve gathered our advice, services and aftercare in one place, like a chat across the nursery fence. From garden design to delivery, planting and our garden curator service, whether it’s a little garden or a larger commercial project, we’d love to help you get it right.
Advice from Caragh Nurseries
When the weather turns warm and dry, your plants will be thirsty. Pots feel it first, and so do any plants growing in built-up ground or poor soil, because these dry out fastest.
Your plant has spent years growing before it reached you, and the first stretch in a new spot is when it’s finding its feet. A little care now helps it send roots down deep, and stronger roots are what carry a plant through the years ahead.
If you’ve gone to the trouble of choosing beautiful trees, hedges and plants, please, please water them. It’s the single kindest thing you can do for them.
If it would make life easier, we can supply seep hose and watering bags. Just ask.
Watering your trees, hedges and plants
When to water
- Early morning is best. Less water is lost to evaporation during the day, and it’s a lovely excuse for a cup of tea in the garden at first light.
- Evenings can work well too on warm summer days. The dry soil soaks it up readily, and lower humidity overnight reduces the risk of disease.
- Try to avoid watering in direct sun. The cooler moments of the day make your water go further.
Dig down to about a spade’s depth and take a look.
- If the soil feels damp, your plants probably don’t need water yet.
- If it feels dry, some plants will likely need a drink.
Soil can fool you a little, so keep two things in mind:
- Clay soil can feel damp even when the plants have used up all the available water.
- Sandy soil can feel dry even when some water is still there.
The best guide is experience. Get to know how your own soil looks and feels, and how your plants respond. Plants usually give you a warning before they wilt: you may notice the leaves change position and the colour darken. Keep an eye out for those early signs and you can step in before they struggle.
Signs your potted plants are thirsty
Pots dry out quickly, so check them often. Pale, dry compost and a pot that feels lighter than usual are the signs.
Before the dry spell: water early
Water before a drought sets in. It keeps the soil moisture even, so your plants never have to play catch-up.
During a drought: water deeply, not lightly
A light sprinkle won’t fix a drought. It encourages shallow roots, which leaves plants more vulnerable. Give struggling plants one thorough watering in the cool of the evening or early morning. Think of it as a long, proper drink, not a quick sip.
Caragh Nurseries
Plan Your Visit
Every garden is different, and we'd always rather you asked than worried. If you'd like advice on watering, planting, or on any of our services, we're here and happy to help.
Call us: +353 (0)45 879 170
Email us: info@caraghnurseries.ie
