Watering is the most crucial care activity that determines the health of plants. What are the most important rules for watering houseplants? What should you pay attention to? Discover the 6 basic principles!
6 Rules for Watering Houseplants
Observe Your Plants
Don't water your plants on a routine schedule, like every few days. Water only when the plants need it. To determine this, observe them (wilted leaves and limp stems are obvious signs, but you should avoid letting it get to that point!).
When to Water?
Use the "thumb test" to check the soil – insert your finger into the pot to a depth of 1 inch. If your finger comes out damp and covered in soil, it means it's not yet time to water. If in doubt, postpone watering until the next day. A lighter pot is also a sign that the soil is dry.
You can also buy a hygrometer – a moisture sensor that you insert into the soil to signal when it’s time to water.
For different plants, the time of year also matters – it's worth reading up on the water needs of individual plant species. This is important to avoid overwatering in summer or drying them out too much in winter.
Don’t Overwater!
Houseplants most often die from too much water. Overwatering is much more dangerous to plants than slight, occasional droughts. Excessive watering causes root rot. There's nothing worse than being overly enthusiastic with watering.
Watering Methods
- Top Watering: Pour water onto the soil in the pot (never on the plant itself) until the water soaks through. After a few minutes, remove any excess water collected in the saucer.
- Bottom Watering: Immerse the pot almost to the rim in a large container of water. The soil will absorb the necessary amount of water. After several minutes, remove the pot from the water and place it on a saucer.
Once and Thoroughly, or Often and Sparingly?
Don't water "often and sparingly." Watering with a small amount of water causes it not to reach the lower layers of soil in the pot.
Type of Water
Tap water (as long as it doesn’t contain too much calcium) is suitable for watering most plants. In this case, the water should be boiled and left in the watering can for 24 hours to allow any precipitate to settle at the bottom.