Watering is fundamental, but the "how often" depends greatly on where your plant's roots call home. In urban settings, plants in raised planter boxes and those in the ground have vastly different needs.
Plants in planter boxes or containers require more frequent attention. Their confined soil volume heats up and dries out faster, especially on sunny balconies or rooftops. A good rule is to check the soil daily by inserting a finger about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Thoroughly soak the soil until water drains from the bottom holes. This might mean watering daily in hot, windy weather, but only every few days in cooler, cloudy periods. The material of your planter also matters—terracotta dries out faster than plastic or glazed ceramic.
In contrast, plants in the ground benefit from the earth's massive thermal mass and moisture reservoir. Their roots can spread deeper to seek water. Typically, established in-ground plants need deep, infrequent watering—about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. This encourages strong root growth. Water slowly and deeply once or twice a week rather than a little every day. Always check the soil a few inches down before watering; the surface can be dry while moisture remains below.
The key takeaway? Planter box plants are high-maintenance, needing consistent checks and more frequent watering. In-ground plants are more self-sufficient, thriving on a less frequent, deeper watering schedule. Observe your plants and let the soil's moisture be your ultimate guide.