Houseplant Watering 101

Watering is the #1 cause of houseplant problems. Most plant deaths are caused by overwatering, not underwatering. Here's how to get it right. ## The Golden Rule **Check the soil, not the calendar.** Plant watering needs change with: - Season (less in winter, more in summer) - Humidity levels - Pot size and material - Plant maturity ## How to Check Soil Moisture ### The Finger Test Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil: - **Dry:** Time to water - **Slightly moist:** Wait a day or two - **Wet:** Don't water yet ### Visual Cues - Soil pulling away from pot edges - Top layer looking dry and lighter colored - Some plants droop slightly when thirsty ## Signs of Overwatering - Yellow leaves (often from bottom up) - Soft, mushy stems - Fungus gnats flying around soil - Bad smell from soil - Root rot (black, mushy roots) ## Signs of Underwatering - Wilted, droopy leaves - Dry, crispy leaf edges - Soil very hard and dry - Water runs straight through pot ## Watering Best Practices **Water thoroughly:** When you water, soak the soil completely until water drains from the bottom. **Use room temperature water:** Cold water can shock roots. **Water in the morning:** Gives plants all day to absorb water. **Empty saucers:** Don't let plants sit in standing water. ## Different Plants, Different Needs **Succulents:** Water deeply but very infrequently **Tropical plants:** Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy **Cacti:** Water sparingly, especially in winter **Ferns:** Like consistent moisture but good drainage Remember: It's usually better to underwater than overwater. Most plants recover more easily from being too dry than too wet.