The number one crime I see committed by new plant owners is watering too much. I’ve done it myself too, so I understand the struggle. Giving a plant the right amount of water can be confusing, but there are a few simple ways to get it right.
How much water a plant needs depends greatly on its natural environment. Dry desert plants can go for a while without water, whereas tropical rainforest plants need regular showers and high humidity. Always check your plant’s product page to find out what it needs.
Before you water, always check if your plant needs it—stick your finger in the soil and have a feel. Most houseplants prefer the top 2 cm of the soil to be dry before getting a drink, so if the soil feels moist at the top, you probably don’t need to water it. If it’s dry, then it’s watering time.
I prefer one proper watering every now and then to little top-ups because this can lead to moldy problems. When you water, make sure to give your plant enough so that water starts to come out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Plants hate having wet feet or roots, so it’s essential that you wait for this water to drain away before you put it back into its decorative pot. I tend to leave mine in the sink for an hour or so.
Also, never repot your plants straight into decorative pots without drainage holes because you could drown your plant. If your plant is looking a little sad, watering could well be the problem. If the leaves are yellowing or droopy, you might be watering too much, or you may not have proper drainage. Let the plant dry out and give the roots room to breathe.
A plant with dry, curling leaves probably needs more water or humidity; try moving it to the bathroom or the kitchen where they’ll get more moisture from the air.
By paying attention to these simple tips, you can avoid the common pitfalls of overwatering and ensure your plants thrive. Happy growing!