As the leaves start to turn, that familiar crisp air fills your lungs and the rain showers roll in, it's tempting to assume there's no longer any need to do the rounds with your can. But autumn is a beautifully fickle season, and your garden may still need a helping hand through it.
While it may rain often at this time of year, giving the illusion that your garden couldn't possibly need another drink, your potted plants in particular may be left still feeling thirsty. Warm days, high winds and full foliage may all be sneakily drying out your pots and containers, so pop your crocs on, grab your can and go check on your patio garden – you might be surprised.
Easy, breezy watering
Brisk autumn winds may have you reaching for your favourite woollens, but they can leave your pots and containers feeling parched. Wind is remarkably efficient at wicking away moisture from the soil, especially if your pots are in an exposed position, made from a breathable material like terracotta, or small in size.
Unlike plants in the ground, which benefit from the surrounding soil's moisture retention, potted plants are completely reliant on what's in their container. So when autumn winds get to work, be sure to pay extra attention to your pots and baskets – else they may dry out faster than you can say "crunchy leaves".
If you've got a lot of pots, a large capacity can is your best tool of choice – fewer trips to the tap, interchangeable roses to cover all situations, and holds enough water to give everything a proper good drink.
The umbrella effect
As plants mature, their foliage fills out, and they create their own little umbrellas. Those lush leaves may look magnificent, but they're inadvertently deflecting water away from the soil surface.
This "umbrella effect" means that while the surrounding garden gets thoroughly soaked, the soil in your containers might barely get a sprinkle.
A long-reach watering can is ideal in this situation, helping you effortlessly deliver water right at the base of your plant without wastage.
The rain shadow zone
If you've tucked pots against house walls, under eaves, or in that lovely sheltered corner by the shed, you might have unknowingly created your own little drought zones. These cosy spots seem perfect for containers, but they're actually rather effective at dodging autumn rain altogether.
Your house, shed, or wall is essentially acting as a shelter, and by autumn, your plants have reached their peak – with large, hungry root systems below – meaning you've got thirsty plants in the very spots getting the least natural water.
Make the most of those autumn showers and ensure your sheltered pots don't miss out by placing a water butt or container to catch rainfall from a nearby downpipe – a free supply of the good stuff is always handy.
Those sneaky warm days
Just when you think it's time to turn the heating on, autumn throws you one of those gorgeous warm spells that has you peeling off layers and wondering if summer's changed its mind about leaving.
Your container plants feel these surprise warm spells just as much as you do. Container soil heats up quickly, and suddenly your pots are as thirsty as they were a month ago. After a long growing season, your container soil has likely become more free-draining and less water-retentive than it was in spring. When the sun's shining and temperatures rise, this tired compost will dry out much faster than you'd expect.
Using a rose attachment is perfect for these moments – the gentle, even spray helps saturate dry soil properly without creating run-off, ensuring every bit of your container gets the moisture it needs.
Your autumn pot routine
Autumn might be generous with its showers, but your container garden still needs that personal touch. A quick daily check of your pots will keep you ahead of the game. Simply stick your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it's time for some liquid love.
Remember, autumn is still very much a growing season. Your plants are busy preparing for the months ahead, storing energy, and in many cases still actively flowering. By staying attentive to their needs, you're helping them make the most of these important weeks.
Don't let those sporadic showers fool you into thinking your trusty watering can can hibernate just yet. Your containers are counting on you to bridge the gap between what nature provides and what they actually need. After all, there's plenty of magic still happening in the garden, so go enjoy it while it lasts.
