When To Water, Under and Over-Watering
Generally, it is best to water your plants in the early mornings (especially if you will be using sprinklers or shower watering) or in the late afternoons (if you can make sure the leaves can dry out before evening or not become wet at all.) These times of day are the best times because they are the times when your plants are most conducive to retaining moisture and really making the most out of their watering.
Though it was mentioned that many herbs have water preferences, the popular herbs listed in 'Some Popular Herbs for Beginners' can be watered twice to three times a week once well established. During the time that they are germinating or are seedlings, your herbs will need to be watered almost every day. Just a little bit each day should be enough for an herb seedling. Once it grows to a mature plant, you can switch to the twice or thrice a week watering schedule.
If you want to do further research on your herbs and their watering requirements, you can do so or just water your herbs twice to thrice a week and observe their appearance. Your herbs’ appearance will let you know whether or not they are getting enough water or are being over watered.
An herb that is not getting enough water will show signs of dehydration. Wilting leaves or discolored leaves and stems usually means that they herb is struggling, and it could be a lack of water. If the top part of the soil is very dry, this could be the case. Water the herb once you notice it, and keep a special eye on its progress. Sometimes you will have to treat it like a seedling all over again and water it a little bit every day until it is able to show healthy leaves again.
If your herb looks like it’s dehydrated, do not harvest from this plant until it is healthy again. Harvesting from this plant means extra trauma from an already struggling plant, and they are likely to wither and die if you continue harvesting. Plus, you aren't sure if the wilting and discoloration is really due to water dehydration or an insect or pest. It's always safer not to harvest till you've solved the problem.
An herb that is over watered will slowly develop mildew on its leaves and stems. Underneath, the roots of your herbs can begin to rot because of how wet it is. Your herb needs to be dried out. Give them just a little bit of water during watering times and make sure they get a lot of sunlight. Sometimes replanting them to dry soil can also help, but you will unlikely be able to transplant them back, should they survive the trauma of being replanted.
In line with over watering, it is important to discuss proper soil drainage. A very important aspect of watering your herb garden is soil drainage. Remember that if your herbs are too moist, they can die. Some soils are very good at draining water by itself. Sadly, you will probably not learn if your soil can do so on its own until after your first try or by asking your neighbors who keep gardens as well.
Page Two: Draining Your Soil & Conserving Water (When To Water, Under and Over-Watering continued)
