How to Tell if Indoor Plants Need Water

One of the biggest challenges of owning indoor plants is giving them the proper amount of water. Over-watering and under-watering can lead to root damage and eventually the death of the plant. Here are some ways you can tell if your indoor plants need water:

Check the Soil Moisture

The easiest way to determine if your indoor plants need water is to check the soil moisture. Simply insert your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water your plant. If the soil is moist, wait a few more days before checking again.

It’s important to note that not all plants prefer a constantly moist soil. Some plants, like succulents, prefer their soil to dry out completely between waterings. Knowing your plant’s water preferences is essential to keeping it healthy.

Observe the Plant

Another way to determine if your indoor plant needs water is to observe the plant itself. Many plants will wilt or droop when they are thirsty. However, this is not true for all plants. Some plants may shed leaves or have yellowing or browning edges when they need water.

If your plant is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it’s best to check the soil moisture before giving it water.

Check the Pot Weight

If you’re still unsure if your indoor plant needs water, try picking up the pot. A dry pot will be much lighter than a pot filled with moist soil. If the pot feels light, it’s time to water the plant.

On the other hand, if the pot feels heavy and the soil is moist, wait a few more days before checking again.

Watering Tips

When watering indoor plants, it’s important to water thoroughly. This means pouring water on the soil until it runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the soil is evenly moist and that the roots have access to water.

It’s also important to avoid getting water on the leaves and stems of the plant, as this can lead to disease and damage.

Lastly, make sure to use room temperature water when watering indoor plants. Cold water can shock the plant’s roots and hot water can scald them.

Conclusion

Knowing when to water indoor plants takes some practice and observation. By keeping an eye on the soil moisture, plant behavior, and pot weight, you can keep your indoor plants healthy and happy.