How to Fully Water a Large Potted Plant

Watering is one of the essential tasks for keeping your large potted plants lush and healthy. However, giving your plant too little or too much water can lead to wilted leaves, rotting roots, or even death. In this article, we'll guide you through the best practices for fully watering your large potted plant.

Determine How Much Water Your Plant Needs

The amount of water your plant needs depends on various factors, such as the type of plant, the size of the pot, the soil type, and the environment. As a general rule, most large potted plants need to be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. You can also check the weight of the pot – if it feels light, it may be time to water.

It's crucial to avoid overwatering your plant, as it can lead to waterlogged soil and suffocate the roots. Conversely, underwatering can cause dehydration and nutrient deficiency. Finding the right balance may take some trial and error, but with patience and observation, you can establish a watering routine that works for your plant.

Choose the Right Watering Tools

When watering a large potted plant, you need to use the right tools to ensure an even distribution of water without damaging the foliage or the soil. A watering can with a long spout or a hose with a gentle spray nozzle are good options for reaching the base of the plant without spilling water on the leaves or the floor.

If your plant has a dense canopy that hinders the water from reaching the soil, you can use a watering spike – a device that allows you to insert a water-filled bottle upside-down into the soil and release water gradually over time. Alternatively, you can use a self-watering pot, which has a reservoir at the bottom that releases water slowly through capillary action.

Water the Plant Thoroughly and Slowly

When watering your large potted plant, it's crucial to do it thoroughly and slowly, so that the water reaches all parts of the soil and flushes out any excess salts or minerals that may have built up. Start by pouring water into the pot until it starts to drain from the bottom – this ensures that the water penetrates deep into the soil and doesn't stay on the surface.

Then, wait for the water to be absorbed by the soil before adding more. Avoid drenching the soil with water, as it may cause the roots to rot or the soil to become compacted. Instead, aim for a slow and steady stream that allows the water to percolate into the soil without creating puddles or runoff.

Avoid Common Watering Mistakes

Some common watering mistakes that can harm your large potted plant include:

Watering too often: This can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.

Watering at the wrong time: It's best to water your plant in the morning or early afternoon to give it time to absorb the water before the cooler evening sets in.

Watering with cold water: Watering your plant with cold water can shock the roots and cause stress to the plant.

Watering the foliage: Watering the leaves instead of the soil may cause fungal diseases and sunscald.

By avoiding these mistakes and following the tips above, you can give your large potted plant the proper amount of water it needs to thrive. Remember to monitor your plant's growth and respond to its needs accordingly, as the watering requirements may change depending on the season, temperature, humidity, and other factors.