Introduction

Potted plants are pretty popular nowadays, especially among people living in urban areas. However, there is often a common misconception that potted plants require less water than their outdoor counterparts. In fact, the opposite is true. Potted plants do need more water than their outdoor counterparts due to several reasons.

Potting Mix

One of the biggest reasons potted plants require more water is because of the potting mix used. Generally, the potting mix used in potted plants is more porous than the soil in your garden bed. This means that the mix has a lot more air pockets which will dry out quicker than the soil. This is especially true during the hotter summer months when the sun is high in the sky and the air is dry.

Pot Size

The pot size also affects how often your potted plants need watering. If the pot is too small, the plant will not have enough room to grow which can lead to it drying out quickly. Additionally, smaller pots usually have less soil in them, meaning less capacity to retain water. Therefore, it's important to choose a pot that is big enough to allow the plant to grow and has enough soil to retain water.

Outdoor Climate

Your potted plants will also require more water if they are placed outdoors in a hot, dry climate. During these conditions, the moisture from the soil is constantly evaporated by the heat, and there is a lack of humidity in the air. This results in your plants drying out and needing more water to stay healthy.

Indoor Temperature and Humidity

Even if your potted plants are kept indoors, they may still require more water than outdoor plants. Artificial heating and air conditioning can create an environment that has low humidity levels, which can cause the plants to lose moisture and dry out. Therefore, make sure to monitor the temperature and humidity levels in your indoor environment, especially during the winter months when the air is dryer.

Type of Plant

The type of plant you have in your pot can also determine how much water it will need. Some plants are natural water lovers and require more water than others, while others are drought-tolerant and require less. Therefore, it's essential to research the specific needs of each plant you have in your potted garden to ensure they receive the optimum amount of water.

Conclusion

In conclusion, potted plants do need more water than outdoor plants. This is due to various factors such as the potting mix, pot size, outdoor climate, indoor temperature, humidity levels, and the type of plant you have in the pot. By understanding and providing the right amount of water, your potted plants will stay healthy and thriving throughout the year.