How Often Should I Water My Devil's Backbone Plant?

Devil's backbone is a popular houseplant among many plant enthusiasts, thanks to its easy care requirements and unique appearance. However, one aspect of plant care that can be quite confusing to many is how often to water it. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ideal watering routine for devil's backbone plants.

The Basics of Devil's Backbone Care

Before we dive into watering, let's first talk about the basic care requirements for devil's backbone plants. These tropical succulents prefer bright but indirect light, and can even tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight. They also prefer well-draining soil, and should only be fertilized once or twice a year.

Factors Affecting Watering Frequency

Now, let's talk about watering. How often you should water your devil's backbone plant will depend on several factors, including the size of the plant, the type of soil it's planted in, the ambient temperature and humidity, and the level of light it's receiving. As a general rule, devil's backbone plants require less water during the winter months when they are dormant, and more during the spring and summer when they are actively growing.

How to Water Devil's Backbone Plants

When watering your devil's backbone plant, it's important to avoid standing water, which can lead to root rot. Instead, water the plant until some water drips through the drainage holes, and then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. You can check the soil's moisture level by sticking your finger about 2 inches into the soil; if it feels dry, it's time to water.

Tips for Proper Watering

Here are some additional tips to help you properly water your devil's backbone plant:

Water in the morning to allow the plant plenty of time to absorb the moisture before nighttime, when temperatures drop and moisture evaporation slows down.

Use lukewarm or room temperature water, as water that's too cold can shock the plant's roots.

If your plant is in a container without drainage holes, be extra careful not to overwater it, as standing water can easily accumulate and cause root rot.

If you're unsure whether it's time to water, it's better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering, as devil's backbone plants are quite tolerant of drought.

Conclusion

In summary, devil's backbone plants require less water during the winter months and more during the spring and summer when they are actively growing. When watering, be sure to avoid standing water and allow the soil to dry out before watering again. By following these tips, you'll be able to keep your devil's backbone plant healthy and thriving for years to come.