Watering new plants: How often should you do it?

Plant care involves a lot of tasks, and one of the most important is watering. But when it comes to new plants, things get a bit trickier. You don't want to overwater them, but you don't want to let them dry out either. In this article, we'll guide you through the process and answer the question, "How often should I water new plants?"

1. Soil type matters

The type of soil your new plant is potted in determines how often you need to water it. For instance, if your plant is in a well-draining soil mix, you'll need to water it more frequently since water flows out faster, taking the nutrients along with it. On the other hand, if the soil mix is dense, moisture might accumulate and cause the roots to rot if you water too frequently.

2. Plant species plays a role

The plant you've gotten also plays a significant role in determining watering frequency. Some plants, such as succulents, thrive in drought conditions, meaning you'll need to water them less frequently than, say, a fern, which requires moist soil at all times.

3. The pot size comes into the picture

Another factor that affects the watering frequency of your new plant is the size of its pot. Smaller pots dry out faster than larger ones, thus requiring more watering. That said, you don't want to water too much, especially for plants in small pots, as it could cause waterlogging and damage the roots.

4. Weather impacts watering frequency

The climate in which you live also affects how often you should water your new plant. If you're in a hot, dry region, you'll need to water more frequently than if you're in a cool, humid location. Similarly, if your plant is sitting in a sunny spot, it'll probably need more water than if it's only getting indirect sunlight.

5. Check the soil's moisture level

An excellent way to determine if your plant needs watering is to check the moisture level of the soil. Stick your finger into the soil up to your first knuckle. If it's dry, it's time to water. However, if it's moist, hold off and check again in a few days. Avoid overwatering your new plant since it can lead to root rot and other problems.

Conclusion

Knowing how often to water your new plant is crucial to its growth and survival. By considering factors like soil type, plant species, pot size, weather, and soil moisture level, you can determine the right watering frequency for your plant. Remember to avoid overwatering, as it can be as harmful as underwatering.