How Often & How Much You Should Water Houseplants

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On June 13, 2023

💧 How Often & How Much Should You Water Houseplants?

Watering houseplants may seem simple, but it’s actually one of the biggest challenges for plant parents—too much or too little can both cause problems. The key is to understand your plant’s specific needs and create a consistent routine. Let’s dig in 🌿

🪴 1. Know Your Plant Type

Different houseplants have different watering needs. Here's a quick breakdown:

Thirsty plants (water weekly or more):
Ferns, Peace Lily, Calatheas, Baby's Tears
Moderate drinkers (every 7–10 days):
Spider Plant, Pothos, Areca Palm, Rubber Plant
Low-water plants (every 2–4 weeks):
Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Succulents, Cacti

📌 Tip: Always check the specific needs of each plant—some love moist soil, while others prefer it to dry out between watering.

🕐 2. How Often Should You Water?

Use these general rules as a guide:

Summer & Spring: Water more frequently—plants grow faster and need more hydration.
Autumn & Winter: Cut back—growth slows, and overwatering can lead to root rot.

Instead of watering on a fixed schedule, check the soil moisture first. Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil:

Dry? Time to water.
Damp? Wait a few more days.

🫗 3. How Much Water is Enough?

Water until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root system is hydrated.
Empty any excess water in the saucer to avoid soggy roots.
For smaller pots, use a cup or watering can with a narrow spout for better control.

💡 Pro Tip: Bottom watering (placing the pot in a tray of water) can be helpful for moisture-loving plants—just don’t forget to remove it after 30–45 minutes.

🚫 4. Signs You’re Over or Underwatering

Overwatering:

Yellowing leaves
Mushy stems
Moldy soil or fungus gnats
Foul smell from the pot

Underwatering:

Droopy or crispy leaves
Soil pulling away from the sides of the pot
Slow or stunted growth

✅ Final Thoughts

Watering is all about balance, observation, and consistency. Take time to understand your plant's needs, adjust with the seasons, and always check the soil before you water. Remember—it's better to slightly underwater than to overwater.

At Breathein.shop, we’re here to help you grow with confidence. Whether you’re a beginner or a budding plant expert, we’ve got the tips, tools, and green friends to support your plant journey!