How Often Should I Water my Plants?
Are you watering your plants too much or not enough?
Water is essential—just like us, plants need the right amount and frequency of water to stay hydrated, happy, and healthy.
But not all plants are created equal. Each one has different needs when it comes to watering, and figuring out what works best can make all the difference between a thriving plant and one that struggles. The goal? Keep your plant babies nourished—without drowning them.
Here are our Top 3 Water Tips (for pots with drainage holes only!)
1) Consider Your Plants’ Roots
When I say roots, I mean both literally and where your plant comes from. Is it native to a dry desert or a humid rainforest? A cactus or succulent is used to drought and can go a few weeks between waterings. Meanwhile, a fern is used to moist soil and may need water once a week.
The key is balance: too much water can lead to root rot, while too little leaves your plant thirsty and wilted. And remember—always use a pot with drainage holes. Without them, excess water has nowhere to escape, and your plant’s roots can suffocate.
2) When in Doubt, Do the Finger Test
Here’s a foolproof trick: stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, hold off.
Don’t like getting your hands dirty? A moisture meter works great too—I usually water when mine reads at a 2 or 3.
And when you do water, avoid giving your plants little sips. Instead, water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom of the pot. That way, the entire root system gets hydrated, and you reduce the risk of shallow roots and rot.
3) Keep the Seasons in Mind
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.
Plants don’t always need the same amount of water year-round. In winter, growth slows down and they’ll need less. In summer, warmer temps and stronger sun can dry out the soil more quickly, meaning you may need to water more often.
The trick? Always go back to the finger test or moisture meter instead of sticking to a rigid schedule. Still, picking a day of the week to check on your plants can help you build healthy habits and prevent neglect.
With these three simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to watering your plants like a pro. Remember: drainage holes, a good soak (not sips!), and paying attention to the seasons are your best friends in plant parenthood.
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Check out my other tips on light, soil, and more—and don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter and follow along on Instagram @verdetribe.