Every gardener needs at least one watering can they can count on to deliver their plants’ water needs. Whether you garden indoors or outdoors, or both, a durable, well-designed watering can will make you a better gardener. In this buying guide, learn about the best watering cans for your type of garden.
How to Choose a Watering Can
When selecting a watering can, start with the kind of gardening you’ll be using it for. Will this be an indoor watering can or an outdoor watering can? Outdoor watering cans are often larger, usually 2 gallons and up to 5 gallons. Indoor watering cans for houseplants tend to be smaller, holding less than a half gallon of water, and come in bright colors and interesting shapes.
Popular Watering Can Types
Factors to consider when purchasing a watering can:
- Durability: You want a watering can that will last several seasons. Plastic is often the most durable material, but colors can fade in sunlight. Metal watering cans need to be emptied and stored out of the weather so they don’t rust.
- Size: You want a watering can that will deliver sufficient hydration to your plants without a lot of trips to the spigot.
- Handle: Look for watering cans with a handle or handles that accommodate holding the can upright and also for pouring. You want a comfortable handle with a good grip.
- Nozzles: Indoor plant watering cans tend to have a single long spout that lets you direct water under the leaves and toward the soil. Outdoor watering cans have “sprinkler” type nozzles that distribute the water across a wider surface. Make sure the nozzle attaches well to the pouring spout and can be removed if needed. Debris sometimes clogs watering cans and you may need to take the nozzle off for cleaning.
Durability
Watering cans should be durable enough to withstand regular use. Plastic watering cans are often very durable and resistant to impact, but they can fade in sunlight. Metal watering cans, especially those made of galvanized steel, are also very durable but need to be stored properly to prevent rust.
Size
Choosing the right size watering can depends on your gardening needs. Indoor plants typically need smaller watering cans for ease of use and maneuverability, while outdoor gardens may require larger cans to minimize trips to the water source.
Handle
A good handle design is crucial for ease of use. Look for watering cans with ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable grip. Dual-handle designs can offer better control and balance when watering.
Nozzles
Different nozzles serve different purposes. Indoor watering cans often have a long, narrow spout for precision watering, while outdoor cans may have a sprinkler-type nozzle for wider distribution. Removable nozzles are beneficial for cleaning and versatility.
Watering Can Materials
Watering cans tend to be plastic or metal. For plastic watering cans, look for fade resistance and solid construction that will prevent leaks.
Plastic Watering Cans
Plastic watering cans are lightweight and often very durable. Look for UV-resistant plastics to prevent fading and degradation from sunlight. These cans are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use due to their light weight and ease of handling.
Metal Watering Cans
Metal watering cans are often made from galvanized steel for durability. They can be heavier when filled but are sturdy and long-lasting. They should be emptied and stored properly to prevent rust. Metal cans can also serve a decorative purpose, adding a rustic charm to your garden.
Best Size for Watering Cans
The best size for a watering can is typically what works best for your type of gardening.
Indoor Use:
- Small watering cans for easy handling and maneuverability.
- Look for designs that fit under the spigot easily and have a comfortable grip.
Outdoor Use:
- Larger watering cans (2 gallons or more) to minimize trips to the water source.
- Ensure the size is manageable when full to avoid strain.
Caring for Watering Cans
Keep your watering can for many seasons by taking care to keep them clean.
- Avoid Leaving Water: Prevent rust in metal cans and discourage mosquitoes in plastic cans by emptying them after use.
- Rinse After Use: Especially if using water-soluble fertilizers.
- Store Properly: Store in a cool, dry place like a tool shed or garage at the end of the season.
FAQs
What is the best material for a watering can? Both plastic and metal have their benefits. Plastic is lightweight and durable, while metal is sturdy and can be decorative.
How do I prevent rust in a metal watering can? Empty and dry the can after each use and store it in a dry place. Galvanized steel cans are more resistant to rust.
What size watering can do I need? For indoor plants, a small can (less than half a gallon) is sufficient. For outdoor use, a larger can (2 gallons or more) is ideal.
Can I use the same watering can for indoor and outdoor plants? Yes, but it might be more convenient to have separate cans to avoid carrying larger cans inside and to meet different watering needs.
How often should I clean my watering can? Rinse after each use if using fertilizers and clean thoroughly at the end of each season.
Conclusion
Choosing the right watering can is essential for effective and efficient gardening. Consider the type of gardening, size, material, handle, and nozzle when selecting your watering can. Proper care and maintenance will ensure your watering can lasts for many seasons. Whether you need the right planters, plants, or potting soil, The Home Depot delivers online orders when and where you need them.
