Why Do My Plants Drip Water?

It is not abnormal for indoor plants to drip water on occasion. If you have noticed puddles of moisture underneath your potted plants or excessive dampness at the base of your containers, you may wonder what is causing this issue. Although it may appear concerning, dripping water from your plants is usually indicative of healthy growth and development.

The Physiology of Plant Transpiration

Plants are unique organisms that rely on transpiration to thrive. Transpiration is the process whereby plants absorb water from the soil through their roots and release it into the air through tiny pores on their leaves known as stomata. As this water is evaporated into the air, it creates a natural cooling effect that helps regulate the temperature immediately surrounding the plant. As effective as it is, transpiration is not a precise process, and it often leads to dripping water from the undersides of leaves, particularly when humidity levels are high.

Conditions That Lead to Dripping Water

In addition to naturally occurring high humidity, other factors could be contributing to the dripping water coming from your plants. If your container-grown plants are being watered too frequently or are sitting in a saucer that traps excess water, they are more likely to drip water. Additionally, if you have recently treated your plant with foliar feed or watered with a foliar fertilizer, the excess water and nutrients could be gathering on the leaves and causing droplets to form and fall.

What to Do About Dripping Water Plants

If you are concerned about dripping water plants, the best thing to do is to ensure that your plants are receiving proper care. Consider the following tips:

Avoid overwatering your plants. Only water them when the soil is dry to the touch.

If your plant is in a container that collects excess water, consider removing it and raising it on pot feet or adding holes to the bottom of the pot to allow for drainage.

If your indoor environment is particularly humid, consider using a dehumidifier to regulate the moisture levels in the air.

If you have recently fertilized with a foliar feed or water-soluble fertilizer, avoid excess watering to prevent over-saturation that could lead to dripping.

Conclusion

In summary, dripping water from indoor plants is not usually cause for concern. This natural occurrence is a result of the transpiration process as water evaporates from the leaves and releases into the air. The plants themselves are not leaking or damaged when they drip water. However, if dripping water is excessive, it could be a sign that your plants need proper care and attention, including appropriate watering and humidity control measures.