There is no universal watering schedule, because watering depends on soil, weather, plant size and whether you are growing in the ground or in a pot. What you can learn is how to check.
The finger test
Push a finger into the soil to the second knuckle, a few in down. If it feels dry at that depth, water. If it is still damp, wait.
This simple check is a useful starting point in most beds and containers.
Deep and infrequent beats shallow and daily
A brief sprinkle wets only the surface and encourages roots to stay there, where soil dries out first. Watering thoroughly and less often draws roots downward, which makes plants far more resilient during a hot week.
For most established beds, that means a good soak two or three times a week rather than a light daily pass.
Pots are a different situation
Containers hold a limited volume of soil and can dry out completely in a single hot day. In summer, check them daily, and water until it runs freely from the drainage holes.
Timing and technique
- Water early in the morning: less evaporation, and foliage dries quickly.
- Aim at the soil, not the leaves.
- Water slowly enough that it soaks in rather than running off.
- Mulch afterwards to keep the moisture where you put it.
Reading the plant
Wilting in the heat of the afternoon is often temporary; check again in the evening before reaching for the hose. Wilting in the morning, with dry soil beneath, means the plant genuinely needs water.
Yellowing lower leaves with constantly wet soil usually points to overwatering rather than drought.
Practical tips to take with you
Check before watering
Test the soil below the surface instead of relying on the calendar. A dry-looking crust can hide damp soil underneath.
Soak the root zone
Apply water slowly enough to penetrate rather than run away, then check that moisture has reached a few in down.
Recheck after weather changes
Wind, heat, rain, and rapid plant growth can all change water demand, especially in containers.
This article offers general gardening guidance. Growing conditions differ by climate, soil and season, so treat it as a starting point for your own garden.