All plants need water, it simply depends on what type of plant they are as to how much water they need. In fact, that is what makes it so difficult. It isn’t just the type of plant that makes a difference, it is the time of year.
Plants tend to need more water and nutrients when they are flowering, which means during the spring and summer.
This is also the time when the weather is warmest. However, indoor plants don’t suffer the same array of temperatures. This can make it harder for them to discern the difference between summer and winter and can mean they need a more constant supply of water.
You need to understand the plants you have to help you understand the likely watering schedule. It can be helpful to look up your type of plant to learn everything about it. For example, click here and you’ll discover everything you need to know about the Ponytail Palm.
Finger Method
One of the best ways to check if any indoor plant needs water is to feel the soil. In general, you should push your finger one inch into the soil. If it is still dry then the plant needs water. If the soil is moist, you can wait to water it.
Remember, while you don’t want your plant to shrivel up and dry, it is easier to save a plant you are monitoring daily by adding more moisture than it is to dry a drowned plant.
How To Water
It may surprise you but watering plants from the top is not always the best method. Even though they normally live outside and have rain on them, plants prefer to get their moisture from the soil. Watering their leaves will increase the likelihood of moisture remaining, leading to pests or mold. Both of which are detrimental to the health of your plant.
Instead, when you think the plant needs water you have two choices.
- Water the tray
If your plants are in a pot with holes in, which they should be, you can add water to the tray they are sitting on. The roots of the plants will stretch toward the water and the soil in the bottom of the pot will absorb it. This makes it an effective way of watering without risking overwatering.
- Soak the Soil
The alternative approach is to water the soil if you can do so without soaking the leaves. This allows the water to drain through the pot and out the drainage hole. This approach ensures all of the soil gets wet and the plant can easily get the nutrition and water it needs.
In both cases, you should empty the tray under the plant approximately ten minutes after you have watered the plant. This will prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged and the plant effectively drowning.
As with anything, the simplest approach is to monitor your progress and define a schedule that works for you and your plants.
