All About Watering Cans: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right One

What Watering Can Should I Buy?

Gardening enthusiasts and plant lovers, whether you’re nurturing a sprawling backyard garden or tending to your indoor green oasis, the humble watering can is an indispensable tool in your gardening arsenal. But with a myriad of choices out there, how do you pick the perfect one? A nice watering cans can be the most expensive tool in your gardening arsenal, so making an informed decision before you buy is very important to most gardeners. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through assessing your needs and dive into the essential attributes of watering cans – from indoor vs. outdoor use, material choices, capacity, flow type and roses, to style, and even the top 5 manufacturers. Let’s delve deeper into each aspect to make your watering experience both efficient and enjoyable!

Your Garden Watering Can – Assessing Your Needs

To select the right watering can, start by evaluating the size and type of your garden. Do you have a collection of small indoor plants or a large outdoor garden? Do you grow plants from seed, or buy everything at the nursery? Do you have a potting bench? The number and types of plants you have will determine the size and type of can you need. For indoor plants, a smaller can with a narrow spout is ideal for reaching tight spaces and providing gentle watering. For outdoor plants, especially those in large beds or containers, a can with a higher volume and a sturdier build will be more efficient. Manufacturers, like Haws, have made some buying guides to help as shown below:

Indoor vs Outdoor – Different Watering Can Requirements

There can be a big difference in the requirements for indoor and outdoor gardens. They are typically quite different when it comes to their watering needs in the cans available. Indoor watering cans are specifically designed for ease of use in confined spaces. They often have slender, long spouts to reach the soil without spilling water on the foliage, which is crucial for many houseplants sensitive to wet leaves. On the other hand, outdoor watering cans are built to endure more rigorous use. They often have larger capacities to cover more ground and sturdier handles to support the additional weight when filled.

Note: Depending on your lifestyle an indoor space, some watering cans can be aesthetically pleasing, and many other manufacturers make them in copper or brass or different colors to add an accent to your indoor space and garden.

Material Plastic vs Metal – The Watering Can Dilemma

The material of a watering can not only affects its durability but also its usability, and its weight. Plastic cans are lightweight, making them easy to carry and maneuver, especially beneficial for those with physical limitations or for use in confined indoor spaces. They are also great for overhead baskets and watering plants that may be in a vertical garden. They’re also resistant to rust and often more affordable. Metal cans, however, offer longevity and strength. They’re ideal for outdoor use where durability is key. Metal cans can also be more aesthetically pleasing, often featuring traditional or decorative designs that add a touch of elegance to your gardening tools. The top metal cans can also be a legacy, pass down to the next generation of gardeners to carry on the tradition.

Watering Can Capacity

Capacity plays a significant role in how often you’ll need to refill your can. For indoor use, a capacity of up to 1 gallon is usually sufficient, as it provides enough water for several plants without being too heavy to carry. For outdoor use, a larger capacity, such as 2 to 3 gallons, is more practical. It allows you to water more plants before needing a refill, saving time and effort, especially if you have a large garden. Although larger cans may be more expensive, the time they save you and refilling can be well worth the extra expenditure.

Flow Type and Roses – The Water Stream

The type of flow is crucial for catering to different plant needs. A rose attachment, which looks like a shower head, can provide a gentle sprinkle, ideal for delicate plants and seedlings. It mimics light rain, distributing water evenly without disturbing the soil or damaging fragile plants. Some cans have adjustable roses or nozzles, allowing you to switch between a fine spray and a steady stream, giving you the flexibility to water a wide range of plants effectively. For plants in pots or containers, especially indoors, just a narrow spout can be sufficient. Some specialty cans have a downspout, which is great for watering elevated plants like those and hanging baskets.

Style – Do you care?

Style is where personal preference comes into play. Watering cans are available in various designs, from sleek and contemporary to classic and rustic. Modern designs often focus on ergonomic features, making the can easier and more comfortable to use. Traditional designs might feature ornate details or vintage finishes, serving as a decorative element in your garden when not in use. The style you choose should not only be functional but also reflect your personal taste and complement your garden’s aesthetic.

Top 5 Watering Can Manufacturers

Navigating through the myriad of options in the market for the perfect watering can be overwhelming, but knowing the top manufacturers can significantly simplify your decision-making process. These brands have distinguished themselves through quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. In the upcoming section, we’ll introduce you to the top 5 watering can manufacturers, each known for their unique strengths and specialties. From the durability and legacy of Haws to the ergonomic designs of Fiskars, the elegance of Gardman, the user-friendly features of OXO, and the colorful variety of Bloem, this guide will help you understand what sets these top contenders apart. Whether you’re looking for a can that’s a pleasure to use or one that adds a decorative touch to your garden, these top 5 picks are sure to cater to a wide range of gardening needs and preferences.

1. Haws – The British gardening icon, is the Haws Watering Can. Known for their iconic, long-lasting designs, Haws offers a range of both indoor and outdoor cans, often featuring their signature brass rose for even water distribution. This is our choice, and we are a proud reseller of Haws Watering Cans.
2. Fiskars – Fiskars combines functionality with affordability, providing a variety of ergonomic designs that cater to both casual and serious gardeners.
3. Gardman – Offering a blend of practicality and style, Gardman’s watering cans are known for their durability and elegant designs, suitable for all types of gardening tasks.
4. OXO – OXO focuses on user-friendly features, such as comfortable, non-slip handles and easy-to-fill openings, making their cans a favorite among those who prioritize ease of use.
5. Bloem – Bloem’s watering cans stand out for their vibrant colors and lightweight designs, making them a popular choice for gardeners looking for a fun and functional watering solution.

Side Note: The Watering Lance. While we’re discussing watering cans, it’s worth mentioning an often overlooked but incredibly useful tool for gardeners – the watering lance. A watering lance, essentially a long, slender attachment for your garden hose, offers a range of advantages for efficient and effective watering. Its extended reach is perfect for watering hanging baskets, deep flower beds, or hard-to-reach areas of the garden without straining your back or arms. The lance typically comes with adjustable heads that can deliver everything from a gentle mist to a steady stream, making it versatile for different plant needs. This is especially advantageous for watering delicate plants or seedlings where gentle watering is crucial. Additionally, the increased reach helps in evenly distributing water over a larger area, ensuring your plants get the hydration they need without overwatering or wastage. For those with larger gardens or varied plant arrangements, a watering lance can be a game-changer in your gardening routine.

Conclusion – Finding the Right Watering Can

Choosing the right watering can is about balancing functionality with personal preference. By considering your gardening needs, the material, capacity, flow type, and style, you can find a watering can that not only serves its purpose but also adds to the joy of gardening. Whether you’re a casual indoor plant lover or a dedicated outdoor gardener, the perfect watering can is out there, waiting to be a part of your gardening journey.

Remember, watering is not just a chore; it’s a ritual that connects you with the essence of nature. So, choose a can that makes this experience as rewarding as possible. Happy gardening!