What I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Watering Can: Essential Features, Best Types & Practical Tips
Intro for What I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Watering Can
A watering can is one of the most fundamental gardening tools, yet selecting the right one involves more consideration than many beginners realize. When I purchased my first watering can, I made several mistakes that could have been easily avoided with proper knowledge. The right watering can makes plant care more efficient, reduces strain on your body, and ensures your plants receive appropriate hydration. Whether you’re tending to delicate seedlings, indoor houseplants, or robust outdoor gardens, understanding the key features of watering cans will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. This guide shares everything I wish I’d known before making that first purchase.
When to purchase a watering can
The best time to invest in a quality watering can is before your gardening season begins. For temperate regions, this typically means early spring when garden centers and nurseries stock their full range of gardening tools. However, you can often find better deals during fall clearance sales (September-October) when retailers make room for seasonal inventory. If you’re primarily using your watering can for indoor plants, timing is less critical, though winter sales (January) often feature gardening supplies at reduced prices.
Best time to buy a watering can
In cooler temperate regions (UK, Northern US, Canada), March-April offers the widest selection as retailers prepare for the gardening season. In warmer regions (US Zones 8-10, Mediterranean climates), February is ideal as the growing season starts earlier. For budget-conscious gardeners, end-of-season sales in October can yield significant discounts, though selection may be limited. Online shopping provides year-round access to specialized watering cans that may not be available locally, particularly during winter months (November-February).
Best watering can varieties to grow your collection
• Haws Traditional Metal Watering Can – Durable brass rose produces gentle shower ideal for seedlings and established plants alike.
• Behrens Galvanized Steel Can – Rust-resistant, develops attractive patina over time, and holds substantial water volume for larger gardens.
• OXO Indoor Watering Can – Perfect spout design for houseplants with precise water control and comfortable handle.
• Bosmere Longreach Watering Can – Extended spout reaches hanging baskets and back rows of garden beds without stretching.
• Dramm ColorPoint Watering Can – Removable rose with precision stream option and ergonomic design reduces wrist strain.
• Bloem Aqua Rite Plastic Can – Lightweight, affordable option with good capacity and balanced design for beginners.
• Novelty Indoor Watering Can – Small capacity perfect for windowsill herbs and small houseplants with controlled pouring.
How to select a watering can
Materials needed:
– Knowledge of your garden size and plant types
– Understanding of your physical strength and limitations
– Awareness of indoor vs. outdoor watering needs
– Budget considerations
Step-by-step selection process:
1. Determine your primary watering needs (indoor plants, outdoor beds, hanging baskets, etc.).
2. Consider capacity needs – larger gardens require 2+ gallons (8+ liters), while indoor plants may need only 1-2 liters.
3. Assess material options – plastic is lightweight but less durable; metal lasts longer but can be heavier and may rust.
4. Examine the spout design – longer spouts reach difficult areas but can be unwieldy; shorter spouts offer better control.
5. Check for a removable rose (sprinkler head) that can be switched between fine spray and direct stream.
6. Test the handle comfort and balance when filled with water (if shopping in person).
7. Evaluate the fill opening – wider openings are easier to fill but may splash more.
8. Consider storage requirements – will it fit on your shelf or in your garden shed?
9. For outdoor cans, look for UV-resistant materials that won’t degrade in sunlight.
10. Check for a second handle on larger cans to assist with pouring when full.
How to use a watering can effectively
The ideal watering technique depends on your plants’ needs. For seedlings and delicate plants, use a fine rose attachment to create a gentle shower that won’t disturb soil or damage stems. Remove the rose for established plants that benefit from direct watering at the base. Fill your can about 80% full to prevent spillage while carrying. Water in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation, especially in hot climates. For container plants, water until you see drainage from the bottom holes. Indoor plants generally prefer room-temperature water, so consider keeping an indoor can filled for 24 hours before use to allow chlorine to dissipate and temperature to stabilize.
Caring for your watering can
Empty your watering can completely after each use to prevent algae growth and mosquito breeding. Clean the rose attachment regularly, as mineral deposits and debris can clog the holes, affecting water flow. For plastic cans, avoid prolonged sun exposure which can degrade the material and shorten lifespan. Metal cans should be stored in dry locations to prevent rust, though galvanized options resist corrosion better. Apply a light coat of mineral oil to metal cans at season’s end for additional protection. Check rubber washers and seals annually and replace as needed. If using for fertilizer application, rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent residue buildup that could harm sensitive plants later.
Understanding watering can design features
Watering can design significantly impacts functionality. The balance point determines how comfortable the can feels when full – well-designed cans remain balanced even when filled. Spout angle affects water delivery – upward-angled spouts work well for hanging baskets, while downward angles suit ground-level watering. The rose attachment determines spray pattern – brass roses typically provide more even distribution than plastic ones. Some cans feature dual handles (one for carrying, one for pouring) which distribute weight more evenly. Modern ergonomic designs incorporate wrist-friendly features that reduce strain during extended watering sessions.
Why does my watering can drip or pour unevenly?
• Poor spout design – Some inexpensive cans have poorly engineered spouts that create turbulence and uneven flow.
• Clogged rose attachment – Mineral buildup or debris in the rose holes causes irregular spray patterns.
• Damaged or dented spout – Even small dents can disrupt water flow, especially in metal cans.
• Incorrect pouring angle – Each can has an optimal pouring angle; too steep or shallow causes dripping.
• Manufacturing defects – Seam issues or molding problems can create unexpected water channels.
Companion tools for watering cans
Pair your watering can with a moisture meter to determine when plants actually need water rather than guessing. Rain gauges help track natural precipitation so you can adjust supplemental watering accordingly. Consider a watering wand attachment for standard cans to extend reach for hanging baskets or back-of-border plants. Self-watering globes complement watering cans for vacation care of houseplants. Avoid using watering cans alongside strong liquid fertilizers without proper dilution equipment like measuring cups. Water timers work well with irrigation systems but aren’t compatible with manual watering cans.
Seasonal calendar
• January-February: Clean and inspect watering cans; replace damaged parts; shop winter sales for replacements.
• March-April: Prepare indoor watering cans for seedling season; purchase new cans before peak season prices.
• May-June: Keep multiple cans ready during active growing season; one for clear water, one for fertilizer solution.
• July-August: Check plastic cans for UV damage; increase watering frequency during hot weather.
• September-October: Look for end-of-season sales; clean cans thoroughly before reduced winter use.
• November-December: Store outdoor cans properly for winter; maintain indoor cans for houseplant care.
Problems & solutions
| Problem | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Clogged rose attachment | Soak in vinegar solution overnight, then scrub with old toothbrush |
| Too heavy when full | Fill halfway or switch to smaller capacity can with multiple trips |
| Water spills while carrying | Fill only to 80% capacity and walk more slowly with deliberate steps |
| Rusting metal can | Sand lightly, apply rust converter, and coat with protective oil |
| Cracked plastic | For small cracks, use waterproof epoxy; large cracks usually require replacement |
| Algae growth inside | Scrub with 1:10 bleach solution, rinse thoroughly, and always empty after use |
| Uneven pouring | Adjust your pouring angle or check for spout damage/blockage |
Common questions about choosing a watering can
What capacity watering can do I need?
For indoor plants, 1-2 liters is sufficient. For outdoor gardens, 2 gallons (8 liters) is standard, though consider your strength limitations—water weighs approximately 8 pounds per gallon.
Is metal or plastic better for a watering can?
Metal lasts longer and develops character but weighs more and can rust. Plastic is lightweight and affordable but degrades in sunlight and may crack over time. Choose based on your primary use and storage conditions.
How important is the rose attachment?
Very important for seedlings and delicate plants that need gentle watering. Look for removable roses that allow switching between shower and stream options.
Can I use the same watering can for indoor and outdoor plants?
Yes, but dedicated cans for each purpose are better. Indoor cans typically have longer, narrower spouts for precision, while outdoor cans prioritize capacity and durability.
How do I prevent back strain when using a watering can?
Choose a can with proper balance, use two hands when pouring heavy cans, keep it partially filled if necessary, and consider ergonomic designs specifically created to reduce strain.
Is it worth investing in an expensive watering can?
Quality cans last decades with proper care, making them worthwhile investments for serious gardeners. Budget options work fine for occasional use but may need replacement sooner.
How do I clean a watering can that’s been used for fertilizer?
Rinse thoroughly with clean water immediately after use. For deep cleaning, use a mild dish soap solution, rinse completely, and allow to dry fully before next use.