Origins and definition of the watering can
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We think it's ordinary, lying at the bottom of the garden shed. Yet, the watering can has survived the centuries, going from a simple "animal skin" to a design object that we proudly display in our living room.
Japanese, Parisian, Lyonnais... Each shape has a very specific function. Do you know which one is right for you?
A deep dive into the history of a cult tool and a guide to choosing the right one.
1. Before the watering can: The Chantepleure
Before having a spout and a handle, the ancestor of the watering can was called the Chantepleure (Middle Ages). It was a terracotta sphere with holes drilled in the bottom.
The brilliant principle: You put it in the water, you plug the top opening with your thumb to retain the water (by vacuum), and you release your thumb above the plant to make it rain.
Today, the watering can has evolved to offer greater precision and capacity.
2. In the Garden: The Parisian vs. Lyonnais duel
For outdoor use, there are two schools of thought. These watering cans are designed for volume (5 to 10 liters) and robustness.
The Parisian Watering Can (The Modern Victor)
This is the one everyone knows. It stands out because of its removable watering head and its ergonomic top handle which allows it to be balanced when full.
The Absolute Reference
The Parisian watering can is an essential tool for gardeners. Robust, stable, and equipped with a rose for a gentle spray that doesn't compact the soil.
See the Parisian Watering Can
The Lyon Watering Can (The Vintage)
Less common today, it resembles a large demijohn or milk jug. It is appreciated for its retro look, but often less practical to pour than the Parisian.
3. Inside: The Japanese Heritage
While garden watering cans are large and short, indoor watering cans are thin and long. Why?
This shape comes from the traditional Japanese copper watering can used for bonsai trees. The very long neck allows the water to gain speed to create precise pressure.
The Copper Problem (and its Solution)
A genuine Japanese copper watering can costs a fortune and oxidizes (turns green) if it isn't polished weekly. That's why we created a modern version.
Japanese style, without the maintenance
Experience the aesthetic appeal of copper and the precision of a long Japanese spout, but in stainless steel . It won't rust, tarnish, or tarnish, and it remains affordable.
- ✨ Design: An art object for your living room.
- 🎯 Precision: Ideal for dense indoor plants.
4. Innovation: The Watering Can That Works Alone
The story doesn't end there. Today, the watering can can be self-contained. This is the principle behind Ollas (or Oyas).
These are microporous terracotta reservoirs that are planted directly in the soil. Water seeps gently through the walls, continuously hydrating the plant without overwatering. It's the most environmentally friendly and safest technique for your plants.
What is your style?
From the pragmatic gardener (Parisian) to the aesthete (Japanese), there is bound to be a watering can for your practice.
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Despont
Beaucoup d’arrosoir « Parisien » (je n’ai jamais utilisé que ceux là) ont une contenance de 11 litres. Pourquoi cette contenance sommes tout particulière ?