How to water indoor plants properly

All plants require water to survive and thrive. So watering plays a vital role for indoor plants. Water helps plants with the photosynthesis process, where plants use sunlight and carbon dioxide to produce oxygen. When I initially started gardening, I believed that my plants would thrive on more water. However, as time passes, I come to realize that my initial assumption needed to be corrected. Different animals require different types of water to drink. So is the plant. So everybody who loves gardening should know how to water indoor plant properly.

Now, I will explain, based on my experience, how to properly water indoor plants and identify common watering mistakes step-by-step.

Why Proper water is essential for indoor plants:

Water is life. No living thing could survive without water. Plants in Florida may receive watering differently than those in Norway. Some plants need more water, some less. For example, succulents require less water than pothos. Humans can drink bottled mineral water; otherwise, plants may not. There are numerous factors involved in properly watering plants.

How to water an indoor plant:

1. Preparation Stage: Make some preparations before watering the pants. At this stage, we need some tools to ensure the smooth running of our watering process.

Use a watering can: A watering can could be a beneficial choice to simplify the process of watering your plants. A watering can featuring a long spout allows you to precisely direct the water where it’s required. Using a bottle or bath mug might make a mess.

Use the right water: Not all types of water are suitable for your baby plant. Commercial plastic bottled water contains minerals, and tap water has chlorine, which may be harmful for houseplants. Rainwater and distilled water are the better options. However, if you are unable to manage these options, consider using tap water, which undergoes 24-hour filtration.

Another concern is about the temperature of the water. Room temperature is ideal for plants.

Plant pot type: When you purchase a plant from a nursery or plant shop, they typically provide you with a temporary pot, which can lead to the plant becoming rootbound. Therefore, you must arrange a suitable container or pot with a drainage hole for the plant. This ensures that the plant doesn’t retain extra water.

Simple Watering Steps:

How can you find out if your plants need water?

First, test the soil in the pot by inserting a finger into a depth of 1-1.5 inches. If you found the soil dry, it needs water. If some clay is sticking to your finger, do not water it. You can also use a moisture meter. However, it is only applicable to small plants. Large tree-type plants would not benefit from its use. There is an alternative method for measuring weight. Lift the pot, If it feels heavy, it means there is no need for any water. If lightweight, it is a sign that the plant needs water. Don’t follow the indoor plant watering chart. This may lead you overwater.

How much water should you have to give your plant?

Aim to water it enough so that the water drains out of the pot’s drainage holes. Don’t make a watering schedule. Your family members may water your plants. It causes additional water. Both overwatering and underwatering are detrimental to your young plants.

Where to pour water

When watering houseplants, it’s important to apply water correctly. It is beneficial practice to water at the base of the soil. Make sure the soil can absorb it without flooding. Don’t directly pour water into the base of the plant. It may cause root rot. You should also avoid water in the leaf. This could potentially lead to a fungal problem within the leaf.

Best time for watering

The best time for watering plants is in the morning and the early evening. The morning (7 to 9 am) is the ideal time to water plants, as they undergo photosynthesis throughout the day when exposed to sunlight. In the evening, water your plants if you can’t in the morning, but do so early. Watering at night might wet the soil overnight, which can cause mold.

We recommend steering clear of midday watering due to the direct sunshine. Water can evaporate quickly, disrupting the plant’s photosynthesis process. However, during the winter, you can water your plants at midday. This method will be effective at that time.

How to Water a Large Indoor Plant Without Moving

If you need to water a large indoor plant without moving it, consider using a long-handled watering can for simple access from the ground. If a garden hose with a mild spray nozzle is located near a water supply, it works well. You can also soak water from the bottom. Place a tray under the pot to distribute water into the soil.

How to water an indoor plant while on vacation

The best method is to ask a relative or neighbor to check the soil condition. If you are unable to arrange for a friend or neighbor to water your plants,

You can follow these simple tips yourself

Cotton string method

Insert a length of cotton string into the soil at the base of your plant. Whatever you use must be able to contain water. Put the opposite end of the string in a big jar of water and place it at the bottom.

To keep a floating string down, tie it to something heavy. Capillary action ensures the string transports water from the jar to the plant. The jar’s mouth should be higher than the plant’s base so that water can readily go down the string. Adjust the jar’s size based on the duration of your absence.

Covering the pot reduces evaporation while you’re away. Keep the string out of direct sunlight so it does not dry out. This strategy should provide your plants with enough water for up to a week. You can water 8–10 plant pots at once with one large container. Simply put the plants around the jar of water.

Saucer Method

This approach works well, and I believe it is the simplest way to water plants without a human. Place a water saucer under the pot plant and fill it up before you leave. While you are away, the water in the saucer will slowly absorb itself.

Finally! through this article, you have a rough idea about watering plants properly, and we hope that by watering your baby plants properly, your indoor gardening journey goes to the next level. Happy Watering.