Introduction

For avid plant lovers, watering techniques are critical to ensuring their plants thrive. Traditional top watering is frequently used, but bottom watering is quickly gaining popularity. Bottom watering is where you fill the pot saucer with water and allow the roots to absorb the water upwards. This process prevents overwatering and ensures even distribution of water throughout the root system. But, how long do you let a plant bottom water? Read on to discover more.

Factors that Determine How Long to Bottom Water Your Plant

The amount of time you should let a plant bottom water is not universal as it relies on several factors specific to the plant. The type of plant, size of the pot, and the quality of soil are all crucial determinants. Generally, the water should be left for about 30 minutes for small plants in small containers with good drainage. For larger plants in bigger pots, water can be left for anything between 45 minutes to an hour.

Signs that You Have Overwatered Your Plant

While bottom watering can prevent overwatering, it is still possible for a plant to get too much water. Roots need oxygen to thrive, and excessive watering can suffocate them. Signs that your plant has been overwatered include yellowing leaves or stunted growth. In severe cases, the roots will start to rot, leading to plant death. To avoid overwatering, ensure the soil is dry to the touch before watering and avoid leaving the plant standing in water for too long.

Advantages of Bottom Watering

Bottom watering offers several benefits, including preventing overwatering, promoting root growth, and allowing nutrients to reach the root system. When watering from the top, water often lands on the leaves, risking leaf damage, especially when the sun is shining directly on them, leading to scorching. Bottom watering ensures that water reaches the root system only, allowing for a gentle yet effective watering approach.

Conclusion

Bottom watering is an effective way to water your plants, preventing both underwatering and overwatering. While the length of time required for bottom watering differs from plant to plant, the method offers several benefits that ensure your plants thrive. Bottom watering is particularly useful for new plants and plants that are sensitive to overwatering, such as succulents. Ensure you keep an eye out for the signs of overwatering and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.