Watering houseplants: don't drown, don't let them dry out!
Watering your houseplant seems simple: grab a watering can, pour a bit, and you’re done, right? Well… not quite! Too much love (aka water), and your plant drowns. Too little, and it turns into a dried-up relic of nature. So, how do you make sure your plant gets just the right amount?
Use Your Fingers, Not a Guess!
The best way to check if your plant is thirsty is to literally stick a finger into the soil. Sounds weird? Get used to it—your plant depends on you!
Dry? Time to water.
Moist? Hold off for now.
Soaked? Uh-oh! Risk of root rot!
Watch Out for Root Rot!
Root rot is the silent killer of houseplants. It happens when roots sit in wet soil for too long, causing them to suffocate and rot. Signs to look out for:
Limp, yellow, or brown leaves
A musty, rotting smell coming from the pot
Soft, brown roots instead of firm, white ones
Solution? Water less, make sure your pot has drainage holes, and never let water collect at the bottom.
What Determines How Often You Should Water?
Not every plant absorbs water in the same way. Here are the key factors:
Plant Type – A cactus will laugh at you if you water it too often, while a fern will feel like it’s stranded in the desert without frequent moisture.
Plant Origin – Does your plant come from the tropics? It loves moist soil. Desert plants? They prefer a dry spell before their next drink.
Pot Size – Small pots dry out faster, while larger ones retain moisture longer.
Pot Material – Terracotta lets water evaporate, while plastic holds it in.
Temperature & Humidity – In winter, when your heating turns your home into a sauna, soil dries out faster. Same in summer, but because of the heat.
Light Exposure – Lots of sun? Faster evaporation. Less light? Slower absorption.
Season – During the growing season (spring & summer), plants drink more than during their resting period (fall & winter).
The Golden Rule: How Often Should You Water?
Tropical plants (Monstera, Calathea, Epipremnum) → Keep soil lightly moist, never soaking wet.
Succulents & Cacti → Only water when the soil is completely dry.
Flowering Houseplants → Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Ferns & Humidity Lovers → Prefer constant light moisture and occasional misting.
Pro Tip: Use Rainwater
Tap water contains lime and other chemicals that some plants dislike. Rainwater is softer, more natural—and free!
In short: know your plant, feel the soil, and water wisely. This way, your green friend stays happy, and your windowsill remains jungle-proof! 🌱💧
