Expert: C.L. Fornari - 8/21/2004

Question
from a local nursery - is is ok to leave them
in the pots which I must water 2-3 times day
or should I try to plant them - i'm afraid they
will all die once I transplant them

thank you

Answer
Nancy,
If they are in small pots they are probably root-bound, which is why you are watering so frequently.  (Too many roots in a small space crowd out the soil and dry out frequently.)  You should either plant them in larger pots or in the ground if you live in an area where they will live for a few more months.   

Frequent watering is not good for plants in that it spashes their foliage with water so much that they are prone to leaf-spot, mildew and other fungal diseases.  It is better to have them in a pot or place where they can stretch their roots and grow, so you can water deeply less often.  (Once they are in larger pots or the ground for a couple of weeks, water only when the top inch of the soil is DRY, then water so that the top FOOT of soil becomes wet.  How frequently you water will depend on how hot it is where you live, but just remember that you want to mimic nature - deep soakings seperated with dry periods.)

If the plants have roots that are thick and congested in the shape of the pots, pull them gently apart as well as you can (plants are pretty tough, so don't be shy) and plant them, watering well after planting.  Don't water too frequently (every other day, perhaps at first) and gradually water less often as they get established.

Fertilize only after they have been in the ground a week or so, and then never fertilize a thirsty plant - water first and after an hour or so fertilize.

I hope this helps!
C.L. Fornari
www.gardenlady.com