How Much Water Does Each Plant Need? Tips for Successful Watering

Watering is an essential part of plant care, whether you’re growing plants indoors or outdoors. Water helps plants stay vibrant, keeps their foliage green, and ensures they don’t wilt. But how do you know how much water to give each plant? Here’s a guide from a British indoor plant expert to help you understand the watering needs of your plants.

How Do You Know If Houseplants Need Watering?

To determine whether your indoor plant needs water, you can rely on two key indicators: the soil and the appearance of the plant.

1. The Soil: Stick your finger about 4 cm into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp or soggy, over-watering may have occurred, which could lead to mold growth on the soil or roots.
2. The Plant’s Appearance: If a plant is under-watered, its foliage will begin to yellow, and the edges of the leaves will turn brown and dry. Additionally, the plant will wilt and may start losing its buds and leaves.

How to Water Indoor Plants Properly

According to Alex Young, an expert from the Royal Horticultural Society, not all houseplants have the same water needs. For example, cacti and succulents require very little water because their thick, fleshy leaves retain moisture. On the other hand, plants with thin foliage, as well as flowering plants or those in small pots, need regular watering.

Here are two popular methods for watering indoor plants:

1. Watering Can Method: This is the most common method. Be careful to only water the soil, not the leaves. To avoid water slipping through the drainage holes of the pot, place your plant on a drip tray. This allows the plant to absorb the water without it escaping. However, don’t leave the plant on the tray for too long to avoid root rot.
2. Soaking Method: For some plants, soaking the pot in a basin of water works well. Water will seep through the holes in the pot, ensuring the plant gets hydrated. Remove the plant once the bubbles stop forming in the soil. This method works best for plants with downy or waxy foliage, or those that shouldn’t have their leaves wet.

Important Note: Always remove stagnant water from the saucer or pot to prevent roots from suffocating or rotting.

How Watering Needs Change with the Seasons

The amount of water plants need also depends on the season. During the vegetative growth period (spring to late summer), plants require more water. However, in winter, when most plants go dormant, watering should be reduced. For succulents, for example, watering every 10 to 14 days during their growth period is ideal. But in fall and winter, watering just once a month is sufficient.

Tips for Successfully Watering Indoor Plants

Here are some additional tips to help you successfully water your indoor plants:

• Room Temperature Water: Always use water at room temperature—not too cold or too hot—to avoid thermal shock to the roots.
• Non-Calcareous Water: Use water that’s non-calcareous to prevent mineral build-up. You can collect rainwater or let hard tap water sit for a few minutes before using it, allowing the minerals to settle at the bottom.
• Misting Plants: Some plants, like orchids or ficus, thrive on humidity. Mist these plants to help them stay hydrated and dust-free. It also helps eliminate pests.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to water your plants effectively and keep them looking healthy and vigorous. With the right care, your plants will flourish without wilting or suffering from overwatering.