AI Overview🪴 In This Guide 🪴
🥇 The Golden Rule of Watering
If you remember only one thing from this guide, make it this: Check the soil first, don’t water on a schedule.
Why is watering “every Sunday” a bad idea? Because a plant’s thirst changes constantly. The amount of water it needs depends on:
- Light: A plant in a sunny window will dry out much faster than one in a dim corner.
- Season: Plants drink more during their growing season (spring/summer) than when they’re dormant (fall/winter).
- Pot Type: Terracotta pots are porous and “breathe,” wicking moisture out of the soil. Plastic or glazed pots hold moisture in for much longer.
- Temperature & Humidity: Hot, dry air will cause soil to dry out faster.
Planning for the cooler months? See our Autumn Houseplant Care Checklist for seasonal watering adjustments.
Instead of imposing a schedule, we’re going to become “soil detectives” and learn how to tell when our plants are actually thirsty.
🤔 How to Know WHEN to Water
There are a few foolproof ways to check if your plant is ready for a drink. The “finger test” is the easiest and most reliable.
1. The Finger Test
This is the classic, go-to method. Simply stick your index finger about 1-2 inches deep into the potting soil.
- If the soil feels moist and sticks to your finger: The plant is fine. Don’t water it yet. Check again in a few days.
- If the soil feels dry and crumbly: It’s time to water!
2. The Lift Test
This works well for smaller plants. Get used to how heavy the pot feels right after you’ve watered it. Then, pick it up every few days. When it feels noticeably lighter, the soil has dried out and it’s likely ready for more water.3. Use a Moisture Meter
If you don’t want to get your fingers dirty or want a more “scientific” approach, a soil moisture meter is a great tool. You simply insert the probe into the soil, and the dial will tell you if it’s “Dry,” “Moist,” or “Wet.”
🔧 How to Water: Two Main Techniques
Once you’ve determined your plant is thirsty, here are the two best ways to give it a drink. The key to both is to be thorough.
Technique 1: Top-Watering
This is the method most people are familiar with.
- Slowly pour water over the entire surface of the soil until it begins to run freely out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot.
- Let the pot sit for a few minutes to drain completely.
- Crucially, dump out any excess water that has collected in the saucer or cache pot. Leaving a plant to sit in a puddle of water is the fastest way to cause root rot.
Technique 2: Bottom-Watering
This is a fantastic method that encourages strong, deep roots and prevents overwatering. For a complete step-by-step guide, see our in-depth bottom watering guide.
- Place your plant (it must be in a pot with drainage holes) into a sink, tub, or deep tray filled with a few inches of water.
- Let the plant sit and absorb water up through the drainage holes for about 15-30 minutes. You’ll see the top of the soil become dark and moist.
- Remove the plant from the water and let it drain for a few minutes before returning it to its spot.
⚠️ Troubleshooting: Overwatering vs. Underwatering
Learning to read your plant’s leaves will help you diagnose problems quickly. Some plants, like the popular Ficus Audrey, are particularly sensitive and will quickly show signs of distress if their watering needs aren’t met. For a more precise way to monitor soil moisture, check out our moisture meter guide. Use this table for a quick diagnosis, and see the photo below for a real-life look at the symptoms.
| Symptom | Likely Overwatering | Likely Underwatering |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Leaves | Leaves turn yellow and soft, often starting with the lower ones. | Leaves turn yellow and crispy/dry, often starting at the tips and edges. |
| Drooping/Wilting | The entire plant looks limp and wilted, but the soil is wet. | The plant looks limp and wilted, and the soil is bone dry. |
| Soil Condition | Soil is constantly damp, may smell musty or have mold. | Soil is pulling away from the sides of the pot, feels hard and dry. |
| Stems | Stems may feel soft, mushy, or even turn black at the base. | Stems are dry, brittle, and may look shriveled. |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my houseplants?
There is no magic schedule. Instead of watering weekly, check the soil every few days. Only water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Factors like light, pot size, and time of year all change how often a plant needs water.What are the signs of overwatering?
The most common signs are yellowing leaves (especially lower ones), soft or mushy stems near the soil line, constantly damp soil, and a moldy smell. The plant’s leaves may also feel limp despite the soil being wet.Is it better to top-water or bottom-water?
Both methods are effective. Top-watering is quicker, but you must ensure water runs out the bottom and you discard the excess. Bottom-watering is great for preventing pests and encouraging strong roots, as the plant soaks up water from a tray.What kind of water is best for houseplants?
For most hardy houseplants, room-temperature tap water is fine. If your tap water is very hard or treated with softeners, you might consider using filtered, distilled, or collected rainwater for more sensitive plants like Calatheas.Should I water my plants at a certain time of day?
Watering in the morning is ideal. This gives the plant all day to absorb the water and allows any excess moisture on the leaves or soil surface to evaporate, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.🪴 See also 🪴
How to Propagate Succulents from Leaves & Offsets
How to Propagate Plants Directly in Soil: A Beginner's Guide
The Complete Guide to Dividing Houseplants: Refresh and Multiply
An Introduction to Air Layering for Indoor Trees
A Step-by-Step Guide to Propagating Plants in Water
The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation: Create New Plants for Free!
How to Use a Moisture Meter (and Never Overwater Again)
The Essential Houseplant Care Checklist & Routine
How to Repot a Houseplant Without Killing It (Step-by-Step Guide)
How to Fertilize Houseplants: A Simple Guide for Beginners
A Beginner's Guide to Houseplant Humidity (5 Ways to Stop Crispy Leaves)
Choosing the Right Potting Mix: A Beginner's Soil Guide
