What's the Best Time to Water?

The best time to water plants is in the morning.

Multiple sources concur that morning watering offers significant advantages:

Reduced Risk of Rot and Disease: Morning watering allows ample time for foliage to dry before nightfall, minimizing the risk of fungal growth and rot. Excess moisture overnight promotes disease and attracts pests. (Source: Multiple Reddit and Quora threads, Better Homes & Gardens)
Improved Water Absorption: Plants absorb water more efficiently when the soil is still cool. Morning watering ensures the water is readily available for uptake before the heat of the day causes rapid evaporation. (Source: Quora, Gardening Know How)
Prevention of Leaf Scorching: Watering in the morning avoids the risk of water droplets acting as tiny magnifying glasses, potentially scorching leaves under direct sunlight. This is especially important for plants with delicate foliage. (Source: Reddit r/gardening)

Alternative Watering Times:

While morning is ideal, if morning watering is impossible:

Late afternoon/early evening: This is a secondary option, particularly if using drip irrigation or soaker hoses that minimize leaf wetness. However, always ensure leaves have time to dry before dark. (Source: Iowa State University Extension)

Water deeply but infrequently: This encourages deep root growth, making plants more drought-tolerant. (Implied in multiple sources)
Monitor soil moisture: Water only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering. (Source: Better Homes & Gardens)