13 Essential Tips for Watering Indoor Plants

Remember, taking care of indoor house plants can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the main points of plant care is watering.

Many plants die due to overwatering, and some due to underwatering. So, the challenge is to make sure you are not overwatering or underwatering your plant. That’s why I have come up with the 13 best tips for watering indoor plants.

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Tips for Watering Indoor Plants

These are my 13 essential tips for watering indoor plants. If you have any tips that you discovered that we didn’t mention, make sure to tell them in the comments below.

1. Understand Your Plant’s Needs

Photo Of A Large Plant

Every plant species has its own different water requirements. Some plants, for example, succulents and cacti, need less water compared to others, like ferns, which prefer consistently moist soil.

First, research your specific plants to know their needs, and remember that it will be rewarding in the end.

2. Check the Soil Before Watering

Photo Of A Plant With Soil Around It

You should not just water on a schedule. Rater, check the soil moisture first. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water it.

If it’s still moist, wait a few days or hours and check again, and if its dry, then its the right time to water it.

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3. Water Deeply and Thoroughly

Photo Of A Man Watering Plants

When watering indoor plants, make sure you are doing it properly. Water should flow through the soil and out of the pot’s drainage holes, so make sure you’re choosing the best pot for your indoor plant

When water flows perfectly, it helps ensure that the roots get enough water and moisture and prevents salt buildup in the soil, as the salt buildup can cause root dehydration and water stress.

4. Use the Right Watering Technique

Close Up Image Of Watering A Plant

Watering indoor plants with the right techniques is really important. Pour water slowly and evenly over the soil surface.

Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases, such as root rot, which may damage your plant.

For some plants, such as succulents, bottom watering can be effective. Place the pot in a shallow tray of water and let it soak up moisture from the bottom.

5. Adjust Watering Frequency Seasonally

Photo Of Watering Small Plants

Watering indoor plants needs to change with the seasons. In the growing season (spring and summer), they may need more water.

During fall and winter, their growth slows down a bit, and they need less water compaitively.

6. Consider the Pot Size and Type

Photo Of Snake Plant

You should choose the right pot for your plant, as it will affect how quickly the soil dries out. Smaller pots normally dry out faster than larger ones.

Pots made of porous materials like terracotta and clay allow water to evaporate more quickly as compared to metal and plastic pots.

7. Ensure Proper Drainage

Photo Of Man Repotting A Plant

Remember, good drainage is mandatory. If water can’t drain out, roots can become waterlogged and rot, which can cause damage to your plant. So, make sure your pots have drainage holes.

Use a saucer to catch excess water, but don’t let the plant sit in it for long, as it can cause root rot.

8. Water in the Morning

Photo Of Watering A Flowering Plant

Watering indoor plants in the morning is best, as the plants start their photosynthesis during the day, and it also gives them a chance to absorb moisture before the day, heats up.

It also allows leaves to dry out if they get wet, reducing the risk of fungal infections or yellow, unhealthy leaves.

9. Avoid Using Cold Water

Photo Of Watering Plants

Cold water has quite a high chance of shocking plant roots. Use room-temperature water for watering indoor plants instead.

First, fill your watering can, then let it sit for a while to reach the right temperature, and then water the plant.

10. Use Rainwater or Distilled Water

Photo Of Rain Falling On Plants

As tap water can contain chlorine, fluoride, and other harmful chemicals that most plants don’t like, collect rainwater or use distilled water for watering indoor plants.

This is especially required for sensitive plants like orchids and carnivorous plants.

11. Misty Plants Love Humidity

Photo of a misty plant

Some indoor plants, like ferns and tropical species, are also known as misty plants and they bloom best in high humidity. Misting their leaves can help increase the humidity around them.

Yet, avoid misting plants with hairy leaves, like African violets, as it can lead to rot.

12. Be Mindful of the Plant’s Environment

photo of a plant in ceramic pot

The environment around your plants really affects their water needs. So, make sure to water plants according to their needs.

Plants in brighter light or warmer temperatures will need more water as they soak up faster than those in cooler, darker areas, which will need less. Adjust your watering routine based on the factors listed above.

13. Know the Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering

Photo of someone watering an indoor plant

Overwatering and underwatering are both harmful and show different symptoms. Overwatered plants often have yellowing leaves and soft stems, and a stem should be firm and upright.

Underwatered plants may have a bit of dry, crispy, and drooping leaves. Recognize these signs, as they will help you adjust your watering practices.

FAQs About Tips For Watering Plants

How often should I water my indoor plants?

It differs by plant type. normally, most house plants should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. For succulents, it can be less frequent, while ferns may need more consistent moisture. Check the soil before watering.

What time of day is best for watering indoor plants?

The morning is the best time. As watering in the morning allows plants to absorb moisture and ensures that leaves dry out, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

How can I tell if my plant is overwatered or underwatered?

Overwatered plants mostly have yellow leaves and a mushy or soft stem, while underwatered plants typically have dry, crispy leaves and may be weak.

Can cold water harm my plants?

Yes, cold water may shock plant roots. Use room temperature water for watering your indoor plants to avoid root-rot.

What if my plant’s soil is always wet?

If the soil is constantly wet, you may be overwatering your plant. Ensure your pot has proper drainage, and check if the soil mix allows excess water to drain away.

Conclusion

Watering indoor plants may seem straightforward, but it’s easy to get it wrong. By understanding your plants’ needs, checking soil moisture, and adjusting your watering habits, you can help your indoor garden bloom happily.

Remember, it’s always better to under-water slightly than to over-water. These were the tips for watering indoor plants you needed to know!

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