This photo, taken on August 31, 2025, by Jessica Damiano, shows water spraying from a sprinkler in a home garden on Long Island, New York. (Photo courtesy: AP)
Gardening isn’t just about seasons. The time of day matters too. Doing certain tasks at the right hour helps plants stay healthy and strong.
Early Morning is Prime Time for Watering
Water your lawn and garden early in the morning. This helps water soak into the soil and reach the roots before the sun gets hot. Watering at midday wastes water because the sun quickly evaporates it. Evening watering also causes problems. Without sunlight, water sits on plants too long. This creates a damp environment where mold and fungi grow.
Morning is Best for Fertilizing and Harvesting
Apply liquid fertilizer in the morning. Water it in well to avoid burning plants and to get nutrients deep into the soil. Fertilizing midday risks evaporation, while fertilizing at night can cause diseases.
Harvest herbs early, after the morning dew dries but before the sun gets strong. This is when herbs hold the most flavour and scent. The same goes for leafy greens like lettuce — pick them early so they stay crisp and fresh.
Cut flowers in the morning too. After a night of moisture and before the heat, flowers are at their freshest and fullest.
Evening Helps Plants Recover
Evenings offer cooler temperatures and shade. This makes them the best time for tasks that can stress plants. Pruning, deadheading, planting, dividing, and transplanting should happen late in the day. The cooler weather helps plants heal after these “surgical” jobs.
Mow the lawn early evening or mid-morning. Avoid afternoon mowing when heat can stress grass and slow its recovery. Also, never mow wet grass. Wet mowing harms the lawn, spreads disease, and can damage your mower.
Weed Pulling Tips
Pull weeds after rain when the soil is soft. If no rain is expected, water your garden bed the day before. This makes pulling weeds easier and less damaging.
Enjoy Your Garden Anytime
Some activities you can enjoy all day long. Take time to admire your plants, smell the flowers, and relax in your garden. It’s one of the best parts of gardening.
