Watering Tips for your Raised Garden Beds
Watering is one of the most crucial aspects of gardening, and it’s especially important for raised garden beds. Since raised beds tend to dry out faster than in-ground gardens, ensuring your plants receive the right amount of water is essential for their health. In this post, we’ll share key watering tips to help you keep your raised garden bed plants thriving all season long.
As my garden has grown and developed, I have gotten better and better at keeping my raised beds watered. But I also have needed to be more and more efficient at doing so. Colorado is a very dry place, and our summers are hot and often rainless. So every drop of water matters. I have worked really hard to be both waterwise and creative when watering my raised beds. I use a variety of different systems to keep all of my plants watered, too. So let's take a look at what I use which can help you keep your raised garden bed plants thriving all year long.
Why Watering Raised Garden Beds Is Important
Raised garden beds can dry out more quickly due to their elevated position and improved drainage. While this allows for better soil aeration, it also means you need to be more proactive with watering. If your plants don’t get enough water, they can suffer from dehydration, stress, and poor growth.
Best Watering Methods for Raised Garden Beds
There are several effective ways to water your raised garden bed:
Ollas: I use ollas in many of my raised beds! They are a fabulous, low-maintenance way to keep your plants watered, and they are incredibly waterwise, too. Check out my guide to watering with ollas here.
Drip Irrigation: another water- efficient method. Choose a drip system that delivers water directly to the soil, minimizing evaporation and water waste.
Soaker Hoses: Soaker hoses are laid on top of the soil or buried under mulch to provide a slow, steady stream of water directly to the roots. I use them in beds that only need to be watered once per week or less.
Hand Watering: If you prefer a hands-on approach, use a watering can with a long spout or a hose with a gentle spray nozzle. Always water at the base of the plant, not on the leaves, to prevent fungal diseases. And get a retractable hosereel – I love my HoseLinks. They make the job so much easier!
My Favorite Watering Tools
-
HoseLink Hose Reel
Discount Code: 2025Angela
$10 off purchases of $50 or more
-
9 Setting Sprinkler
Discount Code: 2025Angela
$10 off purchases of $50 or more
-
HoseLink Soaker Hoses
Discount Code: 2025Angela
$10 off purchases of $50 or more
-
GrowOya
Discount Code (10% off): MIDMODERNMAMA
-
Thirsty Earth Ollas
A system of multiple ollas connected to a reservoir
-
Guide to Watering with Ollas
Learn more about how to use ollas in your garden
How Often to Water
How often you water depends on the weather, your watering method, your soil mix, and your plants. As a general rule, aim to water deeply 2-3 times a week in warm weather. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently. In cooler months, your watering needs will decrease.
To check if your plants need water, stick your finger into the soil. If it feels dry 1-2 inches below the surface, it’s time to water.
Proper watering is crucial for the success of your raised garden bed. By using the right methods and adjusting your watering schedule based on weather and soil conditions, you’ll ensure your plants stay healthy and productive. With a little attention, your raised garden bed will thrive all season long.
