Question 1

How often should I water?

Accepted Answer

How often you water your plant depends on several conditional factors, even down to the pot you use! Generally, plants need more water in hot, dry, sunny, and windy conditions, and during active growth, while less water is needed in cooler, humid climates, and during dormancy. We've broken down the basics:

1. Plant Type: This is the most obvious of factors! For instance—if you have a Prickly Pear Cactus and a Peace Lily, these two plants naturally require two very different amounts of water; the Prickly Pear Cactus requiring little water and the Peace Lily requiring ample water. 
2. Lighting: The amount of light a plant receives can factor into how much water they receive. For instance—a plant that can thrive in bright indirect to low lighting, like the Snake Plant, may not receive as much sunlight in low light conditions that would otherwise help to dry the soil. More bright, direct light leads to higher rates of photosynthesis and greater water use, as well as increased soil evaporation. 
3. Growth Stage: During the plants growth stage (which usually takes place during Spring and Summer), the plant will need more water than when it is dormant (usually occurring during the winter). 
4. Maturity: The maturity of the plant should also be taken into consideration. Young plants need more water, even if they are "drought tolerant". That is why you'll notice the inclusion of "drought tolerant once established", as many young plants still need regular watering until their roots have developed.
5. Pot Type: The pot you choose may also have an effect on how often you water your plant! For instance—terra cotta material naturally pulls water from the soil, requiring above average watering.
6. Drainage: Having proper drainage is one of the most important tips in taking care of your plant. Having a drainage hole in your pot entrusts that water will escape and not pool in the bottom of your container, which can lead to root rot. Amendments can be added to your soil to enhance drainage as well.

Question 2

How much water should I be giving?

Accepted Answer

Different plants require different levels of watering. For instance—a Maidenhair Fern likes its soil to stay a little wet to the touch in between waterings, whereas a Philodendron likes its soil to dry out before its next watering. However, there isn’t a precise amount of water you should be giving to each plant. Instead, think of how often you are watering.
As a general rule of thumb, a plant should receive a thorough watering, allowing the excess water to drain out, and the soil to dry (if at least partially) before watering again.
For house plants, we suggest keeping the plant in a plastic growing pot which can be dropped into a decorative pot—instead of planting directly into the decorative pot. This allows you to pull the growing pot, water thoroughly and let the remaining water drain, before placing the plant back into its decorative pot.

Question 3

Should I have my plant on a watering schedule?

Accepted Answer

Having your plant on a watering schedule may appear helpful, but due to plants having such unique watering needs (as well as going dormant), a schedule is unnecessary. Instead, it is helpful to monitor each plants soil and general health of the plant and water accordingly.

Question 4

How can I tell if my plant is overwatered or underwatered?

Accepted Answer

It can sometimes be hard to tell if your plant is overwatered or underwatered, since they often show the same signs! Here are a few differences:

Question 5

What is the best way to test if my plant needs water?

Accepted Answer

Testing your soil by feel or using a moisture meter is the best way to determine if your plant needs water. Your plant will also signal if it needs water—like drooping leaves or crisping at the leaf tips.

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This guide will help you understand how often to water, as well as tools and tips, to build a routine that keeps your plants happy.

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