How to Water Plants Properly
Watering is the most common cause of houseplant death, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood aspects of plant care. The Plant Nursery approaches watering as a response to plant needs rather than a fixed schedule.
Check the Soil, Not the Calendar
Plants do not require water on a fixed schedule because their water consumption varies with light, temperature, humidity, and growth stage. A plant in bright light during summer uses water much faster than the same plant in lower light during winter. Instead of watering every X days, check soil moisture before watering. Insert a finger 2-3 cm into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, the plant likely needs water. If it feels damp, wait.
Water Thoroughly When You Water
When soil is ready for water, water thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root system receives moisture and prevents salt buildup from fertilizer. Light, frequent watering encourages shallow root growth and creates dry pockets deeper in the pot. Thorough watering followed by allowing soil to dry appropriately promotes healthy, deep root systems.
Drainage Is Essential
Pots must have drainage holes. Without drainage, excess water accumulates at the bottom, creating anaerobic conditions that cause root rot. If you use a decorative pot without drainage, either drill holes or use it as a cachepot with the plant remaining in a drained inner pot. Remove standing water from saucers after watering.
Different Plants, Different Needs
Watering frequency varies by plant type. Succulents and cacti prefer soil that dries completely between waterings. Tropical plants like ferns and calatheas prefer consistently moist (not soggy) soil. Most common houseplants fall in between, preferring soil that dries in the top few centimeters before rewatering. Learn your specific plant's preferences rather than applying a universal approach.
Signs of Overwatering vs. Underwatering
Overwatering causes yellowing leaves, soft stems, and root rot. Soil smells sour and remains wet for extended periods. Underwatering causes wilting, crispy brown leaf edges, and leaf drop. Leaves may curl inward. Both conditions stress plants, but overwatering is harder to reverse. When in doubt, underwater slightly rather than overwater.
Seasonal Adjustments
Most plants require less water in winter when growth slows and light levels decrease. Heating systems dry indoor air, which can increase water needs despite lower light. Monitor soil moisture rather than maintaining the same watering frequency year-round. Plants that receive more light in summer will need more frequent watering during that period.
Practical Tips
- •Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking roots
- •Water in the morning when possible so excess moisture evaporates during the day
- •Bottom watering (placing pot in water to absorb from drainage holes) works well for plants sensitive to wet foliage
- •Group plants with similar water needs to simplify care routines
- •Consider self-watering pots for plants that prefer consistent moisture
From The Plant Nursery
The most common question we receive is 'how often should I water this plant?' We respond by teaching customers how to assess their plant's needs rather than providing a fixed schedule. This builds long-term success rather than short-term convenience.