Agapanthus also known as Lily of the Nile or African Lily are stunning flowering plants that add a pop of color and texture to any garden. With their vibrant bell-shaped blooms and long strappy leaves, it’s no wonder they are so popular. But like any plant, agapanthus have specific care requirements, especially when it comes to water. Learning how much water your agapanthus needs and when to water will ensure your plants stay happy and healthy all season long.
How Often To Water Agapanthus
When first planting agapanthus, it’s important to water them thoroughly and regularly for the first few weeks to help the roots establish Water the plant a couple times per week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings After the initial establishment period, you can reduce watering frequency to about once or twice per week depending on your climate. Agapanthus prefer consistently moist soil in the growing season but not soggy or waterlogged conditions.
In the ground, agapanthus are fairly drought tolerant once established and don’t need frequent watering. Wait until the top inch or two of soil feels dry before watering again. This might mean watering once a week or less depending on the weather.Potted agapanthus will need more frequent watering, likely 2-3 times per week. Check soil moisture regularly and water whenever the top of the soil feels dry.
During winter dormancy, reduce watering frequency drastically. Water established in-ground plants only once a month or less depending on rainfall. Potted plants may need a drink every 2-4 weeks if soil is very dry.
How Much Water Do Agapanthus Need?
When watering agapanthus, it’s important to water deeply each time. Shallow watering leads to short, weak roots whereas deep watering encourages roots to grow downwards for better access to water stored in the lower soil.
For in-ground plants, aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Use a sprinkler, soaker hose or drip irrigation to slowly deliver water directly to the soil. Water until the entire root zone is saturated.
Container plants should be watered until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Apply enough water so that it flows through the drainage holes, which ensures all the soil is hydrated.
The exact amount of water needed varies by plant size, pot size, weather and other factors. Check soil moisture before watering and tune your schedule based on when the top of the soil dries out.
Watering Tips
-
Water early in the day to reduce evaporation loss.
-
Avoid overhead watering that wets the foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases. Always aim water at the base of the plant.
-
Add a layer of mulch around in-ground plantings to retain soil moisture longer.
-
Consider setting up drip irrigation or soaker hoses to automate watering chores.
-
Leftover water sitting in saucers under pots should be emptied after 30 minutes so the plants don’t sit in excess water.
-
Ensure pots and in-ground plantings have good drainage to prevent soggy soil.
-
Check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger into the soil to gauge if it’s dry and in need of watering.
-
Reduce watering frequency and amounts during winter dormancy or rainy periods.
Water Requirements By Agapanthus Variety
There are evergreen and deciduous types of agapanthus, and their water needs can vary slightly.
Evergreen varieties – Require more frequent watering, especially during dry and hot periods. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Water when the top few inches are dry. Protect from cold freezing weather.
Deciduous varieties – Tend to be more drought tolerant. Can withstand short dry spells. Water when the top couple inches of soil are dry to the touch. Can withstand some light frosts.
Potted varieties – Usually need watering 2-3 times per week in summer since soil dries out faster. Water whenever top inch is dry. Reduce frequency substantially in winter.
Newly planted agapanthus – Need very frequent watering (daily or every couple days) during the first 4-6 weeks while establishing new roots. Water thoroughly during this time.
Established agapanthus – Don’t need as much water. Water deeply only when top inch or two of soil is dry.
Signs Your Agapanthus Needs More Water
It’s important to pay attention to visual cues that indicate your agapanthus is thirsty and needs a good drink:
- Wilting or drooping leaves
- Leaves appearing washed-out or paler green
- Dry, brittle foliage
- Stunted growth
- Few or no blooms
If you notice any of these signs, check the soil moisture and water your plant immediately if the top few inches are dry. Wilting from under watering looks similar to wilting from overwatering, so make sure you check soil before adding water.
Problems From Overwatering
While agapanthus love a good drink, they definitely don’t like wet feet! Overwatering can be detrimental and cause several issues:
- Root rot – causes stunted growth, yellow leaves, wilting
- Fungal diseases – powdery mildew, leaf spot
- Decline in blooms
- Pale washed-out foliage
To avoid overwatering, always assess soil moisture before adding more water. If in doubt, wait an extra day or two until the top several inches of soil are dry. Good soil drainage is also key to preventing waterlogged conditions.
Timing Watering For Best Blooms
Getting your watering schedule right will help encourage the most prolific blooms on your agapanthus. Here are some tips:
-
Water regularly (1-2 times per week) during the growing season for lush growth and maximum blooms.
-
Never let plants wilt severely between waterings. Address dry soil right away.
-
Reduce water in late summer/early fall to encourage blooming versus leaf growth.
-
Prevent soggy soil, especially in winter. Drainage is key.
-
Deep weekly soakings are better than frequent shallow sprinklings.
Getting to know your own plants and fine tuning your watering schedule based on their needs and your climate is the best way to maximize blooms on your agapanthus while keeping them healthy. With a little trial and error, you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous display!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does agapanthus need per week?
Agapanthus needs about 1 inch of water per week. This can be split into multiple deep watering sessions. Reduce frequency in winter.
Should you water agapanthus everyday?
No, agapanthus should not be watered daily. After initial planting, water every 2-3 days until established. Then reduce to 1-2 times weekly based on soil dryness.
Do agapanthus like to be dry?
Agapanthus do not like extremely dry conditions. They thrive best with consistent moisture in the growing season, allowing soil to dry only partially between waterings. But they also don’t tolerate soggy wet soil, especially in winter.
How often should I water agapanthus in pots?
Potted agapanthus often need watering about 2-3 times per week in summer, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter. Always check soil and water based on dryness, not on a fixed schedule.
Should I stop watering agapanthus in winter?
Water should be significantly reduced or stopped altogether in winter. Potted plants may need occasional watering if soil is very dry. But established in-ground plants need very little to no water when dormant in winter.
Proper watering is critical for growing lush, healthy agapanthus with copious blooms. Follow these guidelines on when to water, how much, and what signs to look for, and you’ll have thriving agapanthus gracing your garden all season long.
How To Tell If Agapanthus Needs Watered
Water your agapanthus when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Dry crispy leaves are a sign of sunburn, and wilted leaves on a hot summer day can indicate water loss and thirsty roots. Make sure you feel the soil before watering because some of these signs can also indicate root rot, and watering would only make the problem worse. Be particularly vigilant about keeping the soil evenly moist over the first growing season, when your plant is establishing its root system.
Your Green Thumb Support
Mon-Thur, 7 AM – 7 PM CST
Fri, 7 AM – 5 PM CST
Sat-Sun, 8 AM – 5 PM CST
Mon-Fri, 8 AM to 5 PM CST
Agapanthus is a genus of plants that originated in southern Africa. They prefer hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters. The rhizomes can rot in winter if winter rains are prevalent, and the soil doesn’t drain well. In the summer, these plants appreciate regular water and will reward you with more abundant blooms.