The Enduring Elegance of the Haws Copper Watering Can: A Comprehensive Guide

For many gardeners, a watering can is more than just a tool; it’s a constant companion in the journey of nurturing plants. Yet, the quest for the perfect watering can—one that combines function, durability, and timeless beauty—can be challenging. Enter the Haws Copper Watering Can, an iconic piece that elevates a mundane task into an art form, becoming a cherished heirloom that tells the story of your garden.

Understanding the Allure of Copper

Beyond its striking appearance, copper brings practical advantages to your gardening arsenal. This ancient metal has been prized for centuries, and for good reason.

Why Copper? More Than Just Aesthetics

Copper watering cans are celebrated for their ability to develop a unique patina over time. What starts as a gleaming, polished surface gradually deepens into rich, earthy tones, bestowing upon each can a distinct character and a sense of history. This natural aging process not only enhances its visual appeal but also forms a protective layer, contributing to the can’s remarkable longevity. Furthermore, copper possesses inherent antimicrobial properties, which some gardeners believe helps keep the water stored within fresher, potentially benefiting plants by preventing the growth of harmful bacteria or fungi. This echoes the traditional gardener’s trick of adding a copper penny to cut flower vases to prolong their freshness.

Haws’ Legacy: A Century of Craftsmanship

The story of Haws watering cans began in 1886 when John Haws patented his innovative design. His aim was to create a watering can that was “much easier to carry and tip, and… much cleaner… than any other put before the public.” Over a century later, Haws continues this tradition, crafting watering cans—often by hand—in their Birmingham workshop. Each can starts as a solid sheet of 0.4mm metal, meticulously press-cut and shaped. This dedication to traditional craftsmanship and a balanced design has ensured their enduring reputation for quality and functionality.

Key Features of Haws Copper Watering Cans

What truly sets a Haws copper watering can apart are the thoughtful design elements that prioritize both the gardener’s comfort and the plant’s well-being.

Precision Watering with the Signature Spout

Haws watering cans are instantly recognizable by their distinctively long, slender spouts. This design is not merely aesthetic; it’s engineered for precision. A narrow spout allows for targeted watering, ideal for reaching plants nestled in crowded beds or providing hydration to individual pots without disturbing delicate foliage or soil. Many Haws models also feature a detachable “rose” head, a brass-faced sprinkler that transforms the precise stream into a gentle, rainfall-like shower. This soft spray is perfect for watering seedlings, delicate flowers, or newly propagated plants, preventing soil erosion and ensuring even moisture distribution. The ability to switch between a direct flow and a gentle spray offers versatility for various watering needs.

Ergonomics and Balance

One of the most praised aspects of Haws watering cans is their exceptional balance. Designed for ease of use, the cans feel natural and comfortable to hold, even when full. This ergonomic consideration minimizes strain on the wrist and arm, making extended watering sessions more enjoyable. Horticultural experts often highlight this “balance” as a crucial feature, allowing for greater maneuverability and control, especially when reaching high shelves or awkward angles.

Capacity Options

Haws offers a range of capacities to suit different gardening scales. Smaller models, typically around 1 liter (or two pints), like “The Rowley Ripple” or “The Fazeley Flow,” are perfectly suited for indoor plants, succulents, herbs, or small balcony gardens. Larger outdoor cans are designed to handle more extensive watering tasks, providing sufficient volume for garden beds and larger container plants.

Haws Copper vs. Other Materials

While plastic and other metal watering cans have their place, copper offers a distinct set of advantages and a different user experience.

Copper vs. Plastic

• Longevity: Copper cans are built to last a lifetime, often becoming cherished family heirlooms. Plastic cans, while affordable, are prone to becoming brittle and cracking over time, especially with prolonged sun exposure.
• Aesthetics: The elegance and natural patina of copper are unmatched by the utilitarian appearance of plastic. A copper can acts as a decorative accent in any garden or home.
• Environmental Impact: Copper is a durable, recyclable material, promoting sustainable gardening practices. Plastic, conversely, contributes to waste streams.
• Cost: Copper cans represent a significant upfront investment compared to plastic, but their durability and timeless appeal offer long-term value.

Copper vs. Other Metals (e.g., Galvanized Steel/Brass)

While Haws also produces galvanized steel and brass cans, copper stands out.

• Durability and Patina: Like brass, copper is exceptionally durable and resistant to corrosion. Both metals develop a beautiful patina, though the copper patina tends to be more varied and deepens into unique brown, green, and blue tones.
• Antimicrobial Properties: Both copper and brass share antimicrobial benefits, which helps keep water fresh.
• Weight: Copper cans, especially the smaller models, are designed to be lightweight enough for easy handling, though larger capacities will naturally have more heft than their plastic counterparts.

Choosing Your Haws Copper Watering Can

Selecting the right Haws copper watering can involves considering your specific gardening context and personal preferences.

Consider Your Gardening Needs

• Indoor Plants & Seedlings: Smaller capacity cans (1-2 pints/1 liter) with fine roses are ideal for delicate watering, preventing overwatering and soil displacement.
• Balcony & Small Gardens: Medium-sized cans offer a good balance of capacity and maneuverability.
• Larger Gardens: For extensive watering, consider a larger Haws can, keeping in mind the weight when full.

Size and Design

Haws offers various models, each with subtle design differences. Researching individual models like “The Rowley Ripple” or “The Fazeley Flow” will help you find the perfect match for both aesthetic preference and functional needs. The key is to find a design that feels comfortable in your hand and suits the scale of your gardening tasks.

Authenticity and Where to Buy

Given their esteemed reputation, it’s essential to purchase Haws copper watering cans from authorized retailers or directly from Haws UK to ensure authenticity and quality craftsmanship.

Caring for Your Copper Companion

Proper care will ensure your Haws copper watering can remains a cherished tool for generations.

Daily Maintenance

After each use, simply rinse out the can with clean water to prevent any sediment or mineral buildup. It’s also good practice to dry the can thoroughly, especially the rose, to maintain its pristine condition.

Cleaning and Polishing

To maintain the original gleam of your copper can, you can polish it with a mild copper cleaner or a natural mixture of lemon juice and salt. For those who appreciate the evolving beauty of copper, embracing the natural patina requires less frequent polishing, allowing the can to develop its unique character. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the metal.

Rose Care

The detachable rose is crucial for gentle watering, but its fine holes can occasionally become clogged with dirt or mineral deposits. If this happens, gently clean the holes with a small brush or needle. For a tight fit, soak the rose in hot water for a few minutes before attaching it to the spout; as it cools, it will create a snug seal.

Winter Storage

Preparing your Haws copper watering can for winter is vital to prevent damage. Thoroughly clean and dry the can, ensuring no water remains inside, as freezing water can expand and cause cracks. Store your can in a cool, dry place, ideally indoors like a garage or shed, to protect it from extreme temperatures and moisture.

“A well-crafted watering can isn’t just a garden tool; it’s an extension of the gardener’s passion, turning every watering moment into a connection with nature.”

Is a Haws Copper Watering Can Worth the Investment?

The higher price tag of a Haws copper watering can often leads to this question. For many seasoned gardeners, the answer is a resounding yes.

Pros:

• Exceptional Durability: Built to withstand years, even decades, of use.
• Timeless Aesthetic: Adds beauty and character to any gardening space, indoors or out.
• Superior Functionality: Precise watering, balanced design, and a versatile rose make watering a pleasure.
• Heirloom Quality: A true investment piece that can be passed down through generations.
• Potential Plant Health Benefits: Antimicrobial properties may keep water fresher.

Cons:

• Higher Initial Cost: It is an indulgence compared to cheaper alternatives.
• Weight: Larger models can be heavy when full, though ergonomic design helps mitigate this.

Long-term Value

While the initial cost is higher, the longevity and enduring quality of a Haws copper watering can often outweigh the repeated purchases of less durable, cheaper options. It’s an investment in a tool that performs beautifully, looks stunning, and becomes a cherished part of your gardening story.

In the dance of nurturing a garden, the tools we choose can profoundly impact our experience. A Haws copper watering can, with its blend of timeless design, meticulous craftsmanship, and practical benefits, transforms a simple chore into an act of mindful connection with your plants. It’s more than just a watering vessel; it’s a testament to enduring quality and the joy of gardening.

Are you ready to elevate your watering routine with a touch of copper elegance?

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean my Haws copper watering can?

Regularly rinse your Haws copper watering can with clean water to prevent sediment buildup. For a deeper clean, a mild soap solution can be used, followed by thorough rinsing. To restore its shine, a specialized copper cleaner or a mixture of lemon juice and salt can be applied, but avoid abrasive chemicals to protect the metal.

Do copper watering cans actually benefit plants?

Beyond aesthetics, copper watering cans offer natural antimicrobial properties, which can help keep the water fresher and potentially reduce the risk of harmful bacteria or fungi affecting your plants. While not a direct fertilizer, this can contribute to a healthier watering environment.

Why are Haws watering cans so expensive?

Haws watering cans command a higher price due to their superior craftsmanship, use of high-quality materials like solid copper, and their durable, balanced design refined over a century. Each can is often handmade, reflecting an investment in longevity and performance rather than mass production.

Can I use my Haws copper watering can outdoors?

Yes, Haws copper watering cans are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. The copper material is naturally resistant to corrosion, and the development of a patina adds to its outdoor charm and protection. However, ensure it’s emptied and thoroughly dried before storing it in freezing temperatures to prevent potential damage.