What Plants Should You Bottom Water?

Watering your plants can be a daunting task. Different plants require different watering methods, and if not done correctly, they may not thrive. One effective method of watering is bottom watering. In this article, we will dive into what plants can benefit from this technique.

What is Bottom Watering?

Bottom watering is a watering technique whereby water is added to the tray below the plant pot. The water is then soaked up by the roots through the drainage holes, providing the plant with the necessary moisture to thrive. This method is beneficial as it ensures that the roots have access to adequate moisture, and it also helps prevent waterlogging the soil.

Plants that Thrive on Bottom Watering

Although bottom watering may not be suitable for all plants, some plants thrive on this technique. Here are some examples:

Succulents

Succulents are a popular choice for bottom watering as they are drought-resistant plants that require well-draining soil. Bottom watering ensures that the roots have access to moisture without the risk of overwatering, which may cause root rot.

Herbs

Herbs such as basil, rosemary, and thyme can benefit from bottom watering, especially if grown indoors. Bottom watering helps prevent overwatering, which is a common problem when growing herbs in containers as they need good drainage to thrive.

Pothos

Pothos is a popular indoor plant that is easy to care for and can thrive on bottom watering. The plant's roots are shallow and can quickly soak up water from the tray, making it an ideal candidate for this technique.

African Violets

African violets are another plant that can benefit from bottom watering. This technique ensures that the plant's delicate foliage remains dry, preventing the risk of rot and fungal growth.

How to Bottom Water Plants?

Bottom watering is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps:

Fill a tray with water.

Place the plant pot in the tray, ensuring that the drainage holes are in contact with the water.

Allow the plant to soak up the water for about 30 minutes or until the soil is adequately moist.

Remove the pot from the tray and discard any excess water to prevent waterlogging.

Conclusion

Bottom watering is an effective watering technique that can benefit some plants. It ensures that the roots have access to adequate moisture while also preventing the risk of overwatering. If you have plants that require well-draining soil or are sensitive to wet foliage, then bottom watering may be the ideal method for you.