Should I Water My Lipstick Plant from the Bottom?

If you've recently purchased a lipstick plant, you may be wondering how to care for it properly. One question you may have is whether you should water it from the bottom or the top. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of each method to help you decide which one is best for your plant.

Watering from the Top

Watering your lipstick plant from the top is the most common method, and it involves pouring water onto the soil until it runs out the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. This method allows the plant to absorb the water quickly and efficiently.

One advantage of watering from the top is that you can see how much water your plant is receiving. If you have a large plant, it may need more water than a smaller one. You can also inspect the soil to make sure it's moist but not waterlogged.

However, watering from the top can also lead to problems. If you use hard water or water with a high mineral content, it can leave behind residue on the leaves and create unsightly spots. Additionally, if you overwater your plant, the soil can become waterlogged, which can cause root rot and kill your plant.

Watering from the Bottom

Watering your lipstick plant from the bottom involves pouring water into a tray or dish that sits under the plant's pot. The soil absorbs the water through the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot, which can help prevent root rot.

One benefit of watering from the bottom is that it can be less messy than watering from the top. You can also ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as any excess water will drain out of the bottom of the pot and into the tray.

However, watering from the bottom can also be less efficient than watering from the top. It can take longer for the soil to absorb the water, and the plant may not receive as much water as it needs. Additionally, if you use a tray with standing water, it can attract pests and cause mold and mildew to grow.

Which Method is Best?

Ultimately, the best method for watering your lipstick plant depends on several factors, such as the size of your plant, the type of soil you use, and the quality of your water. Here are some tips to help you decide:

If you have a small plant and want to ensure it gets enough water, watering from the top may be the best option.

If you live in an area with hard water, you may want to consider watering from the bottom to prevent mineral buildup on the leaves.

If you tend to overwater your plants, watering from the bottom can help prevent root rot.

If you have a large plant or want to avoid the mess of watering from the top, watering from the bottom may be the best option.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the right watering method for your lipstick plant is to experiment and see what works best over time. You may find that watering from the top one week and from the bottom the next works well, or you may prefer one method over the other.

No matter which method you choose, make sure you are providing your lipstick plant with enough water to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. With the right care, your lipstick plant can thrive and bring beauty to your home for years to come.