How to Properly water your indoor plants

Houseplants are so beautiful and add such beauty to the home. Watering indoor plants is one of the more difficult tasks many people get wrong. It’s not complicated but watering properly is the best way to get the best out of your indoor plants. Before we begin it’s important to know that while you can water on a schedule not every plant needs watered at the same time. Watering needs are based on type of plant, soil, light and environment. Knowing what kind of plants you have is the first step in proper watering.

Here are some great tips on how to properly water your houseplants:

• Water when the top inch or two of soil is dry. This is the best way to ensure that your plants are getting enough water often without over watering them. If your plant is in a tiny pot then water when the pot is half way dry. Watering Based on soil is a great way to water.
• Water deeply. When you do water your plants, make sure to water them deeply so that the water reaches the roots. Having a drainage hole in the pot is very important for watering deeply.
• Water from the bottom. Bottom watering can help with keeping the leaves dry on fuzzy leaf plants
• Avoid using tap water. Tap water can contain chemicals that can be harmful to plants. If you must use tap water, let it sit out for 24 hours before watering your plants.
• Harvest Water. You can collect rainwater or use the water from a dehumidifier to water your plants

Here are some additional tips:

• Place your plants in the right light. Plants grown in high light will need watered more often than plants in lower lighting.
• Use the right potting mix. The potting mix you use will affect the health of your plants. Choose a potting mix that is specifically designed for your indoor plants. Plants in more well draining soil will dry much faster than plants planted in moisture retentive soil mixes.
• Cacti/ Succulents. These plants can go quite a while between watering’s.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when watering your houseplants:

• Overwatering. This is the most common mistake that people make when watering their houseplants. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill your plants.
• Underwatering. Underwatering can also be a problem, but it is not as common as overwatering. Underwatered plants will start to wilt and their leaves will turn yellow.
• Watering with cold water. Cold water can shock your plants and cause them to wilt. It is best to use lukewarm or room temperature water when watering your plants.
• Watering at the wrong time of day. It is best to water your plants in the morning. Doing this allows your plants to soak up the moisture while they are also receiving light.

I hope these tips help you to water your houseplants and keep them healthy and thriving.

Happy Gardening

Ciearra