Nobody told me about this,its just something I figured is good practice.Years ago I went to water/feed some plants that were overdue and slightly wilting.As I got ready to pour my special brew into the pot a little voice said don't pour that on my wilting ass.give me a drink first!Its the only time a plant has communicated with me telepathically,they normally don't give me the time of day.Anyway I hydrate about 24 hours before a good feeding. I'll do 4 5 gallon pots at a time with 2 gals of water,about 1/2 gal. a plant,not nearly enough to get runoff.The next day they look perky and ready for a good meal with plenty of runoff.