Keeping your urban planter boxes perfectly watered can be tricky. Too much or too little water can stress your plants, but how can you tell the difference? The most reliable method is the simple finger test. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. If it feels moist, wait and check again in a day or two.
Look for visual clues from your plants. Signs of underwatering include wilting leaves, dry and brittle soil that may be pulling away from the sides of the box, and leaves that are yellowing or browning, starting at the tips and edges. Conversely, signs of overwatering are also important to recognize. These include constantly soggy soil, yellowing leaves that feel soft and mushy, and a general lack of new growth. A musty smell can also indicate root rot from too much moisture.
For a more high-tech approach, consider a soil moisture meter, which gives you an instant reading. Remember, your planter material matters. Terracotta and wood dry out faster than plastic or metal. Finally, a good rule of thumb is to water deeply until you see it run out of the drainage holes, then allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again. This encourages strong, deep root systems for healthier plants.