H20
Watering: Be the Rain
Rain is incredible, and by replicating it for your plants, you’re doing something amazing. The size of your plant and its pot determine how much water it needs. Larger pots hold more water and usually need less frequent watering, while plants in full sun will dry out faster than those in shade. For most leafy, lush stuff a 5-14 day break between waterings is a good plan. Strange cactus and Madagascan flora might only need watering every 2-4 weeks.
There are two main ways to water. The spout method involves using a watering can or hose to thoroughly wet the entire rootball. Any excess water should be drained from saucers to prevent root rot. It’s simple, effective, and a go-to technique. If you live in an apartment, just take the little guy under the shower. The bath method involves placing the pot in water for about half an hour, allowing the roots to soak up what they need through the drainage holes. This method is perfect if a plant has been neglected or if you want to avoid spills indoors.
A common mistake is not draining excess water, which can cause roots to drown and rot - make sure to drain excess water from pot and the saucer it sits in. Proper drainage is essential for a healthy plant. Another issue is watering too lightly and frequently. Plants need a thorough soak to saturate the soil, followed by a period to absorb and dry out before the next watering. For a 300mm pot, start with about 750ml per week and adjust based on the size of your plant and its environment. Overwatering is not about how much water you're putting in the pot if it has proper drainage, overwatering refers to watering a plant too often and not giving the soil time to dry out and the roots to breathe.
Water deeply, space it out, and watch your plants thrive.