How Often Should I Water My Plants?

Before watering your plants, do thorough research on the type of plant you are dealing with. Every plant has its own watering needs, but you should water your plant at least once every week. Generally, your plants are thirsty if the soil seems dry to the touch. However, to confirm that you aren't overwatering the roots, poke your finger in the soil a few centimetres in depth to feel the wetness. If the soil still seems wet, then don't water it again so soon.

Let’s find out more about watering your plants!

Provide even moisture

Overwatering and underwatering can both equally damage your plants. Try to provide even moisture. Take a watering can with a thin nozzle, or use a wine bottle to water your plants in a more precise way. Make sure the soil is slightly dry before watering again to promote root growth.

Frequent yet thorough watering

Watering one to two times per week is enough for your plant. Some houseplants will need less than that. Water the plants less frequently, yet it should be thorough.

Water your plants at a particular time

During the warmer season, most people water their houseplants in the afternoon, but the heat coming from the sun extracts out the moisture from them. Instead, you can choose to water in the early morning, evening, or night. It helps the plants to adequately drink water before it evaporates due to the heat the next day.

Avoid wet leaves

Try to keep your plant’s leaves as dry as possible to prevent diseases. If the leaves stay wet all night, leaf mould disease will likely attack your plant. In bright direct sunlight, wet plant leaves can result in burn marks from droplets causing a burning glass effect.

Water evenly

If you water your plant daily at the same spot, it will result in single-sided and irregular root growth. Consequently, your plant will poorly absorb nutrients in the soil. Make sure to water the plant evenly and spread it all over the soil.

Irrigation system to save water

Water your plant only when required and avoid wasting it as much as you can. If it’s an outside garden, install an irrigation system with a moisture sensor to save water and money as well in the long run.

Sufficient watering

Watering your plant down the roots provides a sufficient amount of nutrients they need. If you water less than what is required, it will only wet the soil surface leaving the roots devoid of nutrients. Crop plants such as potatoes, basil, carrots, fruits, among others specifically, depend on evenly moist soil and require the correct quantity of water at all times.

Prevent waterlogging

Waterlogging is the biggest foe of those plants that can’t stand excessive moisture. Especially indoor houseplants which must have well-draining containers to release excessive water. You can purchase plant pots that have drainage holes to help prevent waterlogging.

Use high-quality soil

Excellent quality soil containing beneficial minerals will help your plant thrive better than a cheap, low-quality ones. Never compromise on the soil quality as better soil will hold water more evenly and ensure proper growth. However, you should reduce watering during wet seasons to avoid excessive water absorption.