How to Properly Use the Watering Can

The key to a proper watering can spray has to do with pressure, particularly when using an oval rose with an upward facing brass plate.

When used properly, the watering can will produce a good spray which is ideal for seedlings.

When using the watering can, slowly adjust the angle so that sufficient pressure to the spray is maintained. This way, water is sprayed properly from the small holes of the spray plate. If insufficient pressure is applied, the water will just run across the brass face and will not spray properly. This will lead to the water streaming to the tip of the rose and it may appear like the rose is trickling.

Good watering cans like Haws watering can are equipped with a long neck to stop water from spilling when the watering can is tilted.

When watering young plants, it is always advised to get a good spray before actually going to spraying the seedlings. You should stop spraying when the good spray settles down which occurs when the can is nearing empty. Just refill the watering can with water and repeat.

If you need heavier spraying to a confined area, you may choose to turn the rose so it’s downwards, with the holes facing towards the ground.

Troubleshooting Tips if The Rose Isn’t Spraying.

Ensure that the problem is the rose and not the can by confirming that the water flows properly when the rose is not attached. If the water isn’t flowing properly, the spout is probably blocked by debris. To check for debris, hold the watering can towards the light and look inside. Any debris can be removed by sticking a cane or any other long material into the spout.

If the can is ok, the rose may be blocked. Try running water through the rose ideally at high pressure to flush any blockages out. Hold the rose towards the light to check if there is remaining debris. Debris can also be cleared by running the rose through an airline at your local auto shop or garage.

If these two steps do not solve your problem, check out the rose further to see if it is blocked by algae or limescale. If found to be blocked by algae, you may treat the rose in a mild bleach solution, taking care to give the rose a good clean with fresh water before using it to water any plants again. If the problem is found to be limescale, you may use a biodegradable kettle descaler to remove it.