How to Properly Water Greenhouse Plants

Greenhouses are useful for growing tropical and desert plants in cold climates. They also allow gardeners to grow vegetables and fruit year-round without worrying about outside temperatures. The humidity in a greenhouse usually is kept between 50 and 70 percent, which also keeps the soil moist. As with all plants, those growing in a greenhouse need air around their roots as well as soil. If the soil around the plants is saturated with water, the roots can drown. For proper greenhouse watering, pay attention to the needs of each plant.

Sling psychrometer
Watering wand

Instructions

- 1
  Check the humidity levels in the greenhouse and any overhead misters. The best method of measuring humidity is with a sling psychrometer, according to the University of Massachusetts. Misters provide water to greenhouse plants, reducing the frequency of watering. If the humidity level is below 50 percent, turn the level closer to 70 percent.
- 2
  Check the soil in each plant on a daily basis. Before watering a plant, make sure the soil around it is at least dry on the top 2 to 3 inches. Stick a finger into the soil to check if it's dry. Certain plants, such as cacti and succulents, need water only when the soil is totally dry.
- 3
  Set the tip of the watering wand near the surface of the soil and turn it on. Allow the greenhouse plant's container to fill with water and drip out of the bottom. Avoid allowing the tip of the wand to touch the soil's surface, and avoid wetting the plant's leaves.

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