how to water plants?
One of the most common mistakes new plant parents make is over-watering. Yes, unfortunately, it is possible that you give your plants too much of a good thing! All plants need water, we’re not saying let your friends dry out, but you need to know how to dose the amount.
Biologically, the logic is as follows: the roots absorb water and fill the plant’s cells, strengthening its fibers to produce strong leaves and stems, but plants also need air, so having “empty” spaces in the soil is critical.
That is, when you overwater your plant, there is no air left in the soil, preventing it from being able to breathe. Excess moisture also makes plants very susceptible to diseases such as root rot and fungus. See below how to properly water your plants to keep them happy and healthy!
1. The vase matters
Most of the plants you buy come in growing pots. These pots are meant to be temporary containers for your plants, not permanent homes. Plants kept in long-term growers’ pots are almost always rooted in the container, which inhibits their growth, makes it difficult to water them properly, and can make them more susceptible to disease.
To keep your plants healthy, they need vases of the correct size for the size of the plant. Pots also need drainage holes to help the soil dry out after watering, and they should be on a saucer to allow you to water thoroughly and capture excess water.
2. Different plants have different needs
Like people, plants thrive in a variety of moisture conditions, depending on the type of plant and the environment. If you’re wondering how often you should water your plants, you first need to learn the language of your plants so you know when it’s time to water.
Succulents, for example, like to be kept on the dry side and are highly susceptible to rot if over-watered. Potted tropical plants, such as ferns and calateria, need to be kept moist at all times, while other plants prefer to dry out a bit between waterings.
And instead of setting a strict watering schedule, it is better to pay attention to when the soil is dry. Be sure to use your finger or moisture meter to check a few inches below the topsoil, and if you’re not detecting any moisture, it’s time to water.
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3. Water the soil, not the leaves
It is also important to avoid splashing on the leaves when watering your plant. Make sure the spout of the watering can is below the leaves and only directed towards the soil. This easy method helps prevent bacterial infections, yeast infections and other health problems.
4. Water thoroughly and evenly
If you only water one side, the roots and leaves grow towards the water that is available on that side. To keep your plant full and lush, water evenly throughout the pot. Water well until water runs from the bottom of the pot into the saucer.
5. Throw away any excess water
Similar to how people don’t like their feet in wet shoes or socks, plants also don’t like their roots to be kept in excessively wet soil. When a plant’s roots remain in soggy soil for too long, your plant will eventually rot.
After watering thoroughly, wait a few minutes for water to drain out of the drain holes in the saucer, then discard excess water to avoid soggy soil and “wet feet”.
6. Consider the seasons
Many plants go dormant during the colder seasons, conserving energy and slowing their growth. As a result, plants require much less water than in summer. This change in behavior makes it all the more important to learn the language of your specific plant and take the time to understand when it really needs watering.
Indoor temperature is another important factor in keeping a houseplant healthy, especially with the changing seasons. Be sure to learn what temperature and humidity levels your plants need and do your best to replicate those environmental conditions.
*Via bloomscape