The Best Watering Can

Buying Guide

Whether you’re an avid gardener or just have a few plants around the house, having the right watering can can make your life considerably easier. Avoiding the drips and dribble, the right watering can ensures you water your plants and not the floor. How do you choose a watering can? While many of them look the same, there are a few key features you need to be aware of.

When selecting a watering can, begin by considering the material it’s made from. The two most common materials for watering cans are metal and plastic. If you want something affordable and lightweight, plastic is a good choice. However, it’s not as durable as metal. Metal watering cans are a little heavier than plastic, but they are made to last. However, they can rust if they are not made from galvanized metal.

When it comes to size, you’ll have to think about how many plants you’re watering and how many trips you’ll need to make to the hose or other water source. If you don’t mind making extra trips back to get more water, than a smaller watering can will be easier to hold and maneuver. If you want to have a lot of water with you, then opt for a larger watering can but keep in mind that it will be heavy.

The length of the watering can’s neck is also important to consider because it helps make sure you get the water where you need it to go. If you’re watering tall, leafy plants, then a longer neck is best to get under the leaves. It’s also useful for hanging baskets and other places that are difficult to reach. If you’re just watering small plants from overhead, then a shorter necked watering can will do the trick.

• If you have weak wrists or have trouble holding heavy objects, pay special attention to the handle on the watering can. Some come with a double handle, which is an excellent idea if you want to use both hands for support.
• The sprinkler attachment, also called the spout or rosette, can have different types of spray depending on the can. Some have a fine mist which is ideal for watering delicate or new plants. However, if you want to water hardy plants, you’ll need a faster spray. Some watering cans actually come with adjustable spouts so you can choose the type of spray you need based on what you’re watering.
• Avoiding spills is key, so look for a watering can that has a wide base. This will allow for better balance both when it’s sitting on the ground and when it’s being used. A watering can that has a narrow base is much more likely to tip unpredictably.
• If you’re looking for a decorative watering can that you don’t plan to use to water plants often, ceramic is a good choice. They look stunning, and often have beautifully painted designs. However, they are particularly heavy, especially when filled, and can break or crack if they are dropped.