We get it — you see your plant droop and go full superhero with the hose. But before you rescue what might not need rescuing, let’s talk about how roots actually work. 

Here’s the truth: 

• Roots need air. Constantly soggy soil suffocates them. It’s better to be a little dry than soaked. 
• Water deeply, not daily. Then let the top 1–2″ of soil dry out. Roots will chase moisture deeper and grow stronger. 
• Morning is best. It reduces evaporation and gives plants time to absorb moisture before the sun starts showing off. 
• Check the weather. Irrigation is supplemental — not a substitute for rain. Let Mother Nature handle the watering when she shows up. 

Think of it like this:
Making roots work a little to find water is like building muscle at the gym. A little stress creates strength. When we remove all adversity, we build shallow, weak root systems — and those plants will fold the second conditions aren’t perfect.