5 mistakes in watering indoor plants that will harm them
Here are some tips to avoid killing your houseplants from subtle watering mistakes.
1. Follow a strict watering schedule
Houseplant owners often choose a specific watering schedule and stick to it strictly. For example, they water their plants every other day or every Sunday. But all plants are different, and even plants of the same variety may have different water requirements. After all, the frequency of watering is influenced by the location of the flower, the room’s humidity level, the proximity of a hot radiator, and even the color of the pot. For example, plants standing in the sun in a dark pot will need to be watered more often.
How to do it better
It is worth finding out the recommended watering frequency for a particular plant and sticking to it. But also keep a close eye on your green pet so as not to ruin it with such pedantry. What to look for?
- The condition of the leaves. If they droop or lose elasticity, try watering more often.
- The condition of the soil. If the top layer of soil is dry and hard, don’t wait for the scheduled day. The only exception may be cacti, which accumulate water and thrive in dry soil.
Follow a strict watering schedule | Pixabay
2. Water at the same frequency throughout the year
If the temperature in your home does not change in winter and summer, this does not mean that plants should be watered at the same frequency throughout the year. They have their own biological rhythm: in spring and summer, plants bloom and need more water, while in winter, all processes slow down and they do not absorb moisture as actively.
How to do it better
Could you check whether your plant hibernates, and how much you need to reduce watering when the cold weather sets in? You may need to reduce watering and move the pot to a cooler place.
5 mistakes in watering indoor plants that will harm them | Pexels
3. Leaving water in the tray
Water is left in the tray, believing it is for this: the plant will gradually absorb it so that it can be watered less often. This is not entirely true. Stagnant water and a damp bottom layer of soil in the pot can lead to root rot, mold, and fungus.
How to do it better
You can leave water in the tray for 15-20 minutes. This is enough for the soil to absorb the necessary amount. Then drain the remaining water and wipe the tray.
Occasionally, you can leave the excess moisture in the tray if, for example, no one will be home for several days and the plant will have to wait longer than usual for water. But this method should not be overused.
Leaving water in the tray | Pixabay
4. Water only from above
The most popular watering method, which everyone knows, is top watering. According to this method, the soil is watered from a watering can or mug, and the water also falls on the leaves. After that, the excess water is drained from the tray.
The problem is that this method is not suitable for all plants. Some species do not like wet leaves, such as violets, geraniums, gloxinias, begonias, coleus, and many succulents. It is easy to identify a flower that should not be wet — it has fuzzy or matte leaves that look as if they are covered with wax.
How to do it better
If the plant cannot be watered or sprayed, wet it using the bottom method: pour water into the tray; the soil will absorb the required amount. Could you make sure that the pot has enough drainage holes and that the soil or drainage layer is in contact with the water?
Water only from above | Pixabay
5. Use cold running water
The composition and temperature of water are essential for indoor plants. Cold tap water can kill some flowers. Of course, there are undemanding plants that are not affected by these parameters. But even they will grow better with good quality water.
How to improve
Use a water filter, or let the water settle for a couple of days so that all the sediment settles to the bottom. Always use room-temperature water when watering.
Use cold running water | Unsplash
❓ Questions and answers
How can I tell if I’m overwatering or underwatering?
Overwatering often leads to soggy soil, root-rot, yellowing or wilting leaves, mold, or a musty smell.
Underwatering shows up as dry, crispy soil pulling away from pot sides, brown or crispy leaf edges, wilting that recovers after watering, and stunted growth.
Is it okay to water from the top only (pour water on the soil surface)?
Not always. For some species — like fuzzy-leaf or succulent plants — wetting leaves can cause problems. Bottom-watering (supplying water from below so the soil absorbs it) can be gentler and more effective.
Does water temperature matter?
Yes. Cold tap water can shock roots; many indoor plants do better when watered with room-temperature or slightly warm water.
Should I water plants the same way in summer and winter?
No. Plants often need more water during their active growth (spring/summer) and much less or none in dormancy (late fall/winter). Please adjust the watering frequency accordingly.
Sofia Lorenson: An expert in floriculture and floristry with 10 years of experience. I will help you create the garden of your dreams, which will bloom from spring to fall.
1 Response
[…] beautiful natural decoration for any corner of the apartment. The flower prefers diffused light and moderate watering, does not tolerate excessive moisture, so it is better not to place it in the bathroom or kitchen. […]