How Much Water Should You Use on a Hanging Plants

Plants and flowers look amazing when they are hanging, especially for indoor gardens or small apartment spaces. However, watering hanging plants can be a bit tricky compared to plants that sit on the ground. Overwatering can be detrimental to the health of your plants, whereas under-watering can be just as harmful. So, how much water should you use on a hanging plant? Let's explore some tips on watering hanging plants.

Consider the Plant Type and Size

Hanging plants come in a variety of types, sizes, and shapes. When it comes to watering them, it's important to consider their individual needs. Some plants like the Boston Fern or Spider Plant require more watering than others, while succulent plants can go weeks without water. The size of your plant also matters since larger plants will require more water than smaller plants. So, before you water your hanging plants, research their specific watering needs to establish how frequently you need to water them and how much water they require each time.

Check the Soil Moisture

The best way to determine if your hanging plant needs water is by checking the soil moisture. With your finger, dig down into the soil about an inch or two to see if the soil is moist or dry. If the soil feels dry or almost dry, it's time to water the plant. If the soil is still moist, leave the plant for another day or two before watering. Another way to check soil moisture is to lift the pot up to see how heavy it is; if it feels lighter than before, it's probably time to water the plant. Always water your plants when they need it, not on a set schedule.

Water Slowly and Thoroughly

When watering hanging plants, it's essential to water thoroughly and slowly. Water the soil around the plant's base, avoiding the leaves to prevent fungal growth, rot, or risk of disease. Make sure that the pot has proper drainage to avoid overwatering since standing water can cause root rot. Water the plant until the water comes out the bottom drainage holes in the pot; this indicates that the soil is saturated. If the pot is too heavy to carry back to its hanging position, you may leave it to drip-dry for a few minutes. Additionally, avoid getting water on the floors and walls where the hanger is attached.

Consider the Humidity Levels

Humidity levels can affect how much water hanging plants require. In general, drier air absorbs moisture faster than high humidity air, especially during hot summers or cold winters. If the room lacks humidity, you might consider misting the leaves to provide more moisture to the plant. Alternatively, consider grouping multiple hanging plants to increase humidity levels through transpiration.

In Conclusion

Hanging plants add style and elegance to any home or garden space. However, watering them can be tricky, and it's easy to over or under-water them. As a rule of thumb, consider your plant's individual needs, check soil moisture, water slowly and thoroughly, and maintain proper humidity levels. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the beauty of healthy hanging plants for years to come.