How Often Should I Water my Houseplants?

Are you watering your plants too much or not enough?

Water is essential--and just like us, plants need the right amount of water to stay hydrated, happy, and healthy. 

But not all plants are created equal, and each plant has different needs when it comes to water. It’s important to be sure your plant babies aren’t parched, but it’s equally important to make sure you’re not overwatering. 

Here are our Top 3 Water Tips:

1) When in Doubt, Use the Finger Test

Want a foolproof way to check if your plants are due for some good old H20? All you have to do is lift a finger! Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil, if the soil feels dry--it’s time to water. If the soil feels wet, don’t water. Alternately, you can use a chopstick if you don’t want to get your hands dirty. It’s as easy as that!

2) Consider Your Plants’ Roots

Yes, we’re talking about its literal roots, but it’s also important to consider where your plant comes from. Is it native to dry, desert-like climates or humid, wet rainforests? Knowing more about your plants’ origin can help you better understand how often they need water. Cacti and succulents can go a few weeks between watering, while thirstier ferns thrive when watered once or twice a week. 

It’s important to be sure you let the water soak in and not water while the soil is still wet (here’s where the finger test comes in handy!). Overwatering can drown your plants or result in root rot, while underwatering leaves your plants wilting and undernourished. It’s all about finding the right balance. 

3) Stick to a Schedule 

Another helpful tip to help you master the right way to water is to create a watering schedule. It’s important to still use the finger test to be sure your plants actually need watering, as different times of year may affect how often your plants actually need water. In the winter, plants often need less water, while in the hotter, sunnier months the water may evaporate more quickly, requiring you to water more often. 

Creating reminders in your phone for when to water can help remind you to check in on your plants’ needs and establish good plant parenthood habits.

There you go! Three easy tips to help you water your plants like a pro. 

Check out our other plant tips and tricks to learn more about the needs of different types of plants, tips on giving your plants enough sunlight, and more!