A watering can is one of the top three gardening tools and is worth its weight in gold for various chores.
It’s simple to use and always gets the job done. You fill it with water, hydrate your plants, and then stash it in your garage or house. I mean, what could possibly go wrong?
Believe it or not, incorrectly storing a watering can could spell a disaster for your prized plants. I was shocked, too!
So, here’s the kicker:
Leaving Water In The Can Is The Number One Mistake!
What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of a combination of metal and water? For me, it’s rust!
If you keep leaving water in your can, rust is inevitable, so you’ll end up giving your plants rusty water!
Look, it may not destroy your plants in a matter of seconds, but if you think about it in the long term, it’s anything but healthy.
Some plants require a higher pH for healthy development, and rusty water is on the acidic side. If you use it for a long period of time, your plants may lack certain nutrients.
But a bigger issue is if you water delicate plants with rusty water. Yes, some plants are drama queens, and only fresh and clean water meets their requirements.
Even plastic cans aren’t safe if you leave water in them. Mold is the biggest issue and we all know that mold is harmful. Standing water contains pathogens that can increase susceptibility to plant fungal diseases.
To avoid all these issues, you need to be careful how you leave your watering can after using it.
This Is How I Store My Watering Can
Luckily, this problem has a super simple solution! Once you’re done with watering your plants, turn the can upside down and you’re good to go!
Dry cans won’t attract any pathogens or lead to rust, so your plants will be completely safe.
You can call me a panic-monger but I don’t want to risk anything. I wipe down the insides of my watering can with an old rug and then store it (and turn it upside down!). I do this for both my plastic and metal cans.
Our green buddies deserve only the best! Store your watering cans the right way and keep your garden blooming without a hitch!