Is it Better to Water Plants from the Bottom Up?

When it comes to watering plants, there are different approaches and methods that gardeners and plant enthusiasts use. One of the most debated topics is whether it’s better to water plants from the bottom up or from the top down. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each method to help you decide which one works best for your plants.

Watering from the Bottom Up

Watering from the bottom up means that you place your potted plants in a container filled with water, so that the plants can absorb water through the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of this method:

Advantages

Prevents water from gathering on the plant’s leaves, which can cause fungal diseases

Allows roots to absorb as much water as needed

Less frequent watering is required as the water stays in the container longer

Disadvantages

The water may not reach the surface of the soil, which can lead to dry pockets of soil

Overwatering can occur if the plants sit in the water for too long

Some plants may not absorb water through the drainage holes as efficiently as others

Watering from the Top Down

Watering from the top down means that you pour water directly onto the soil and the plants from above. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of this method:

Advantages

Allows water to reach the surface of the soil, which can help prevent dry pockets

Provides the opportunity for the leaves to be washed, removing any dust or debris

Can be a useful way to deliver nutrients and liquid fertilizers

Disadvantages

Water can gather on the leaves, which can increase the risk of fungal diseases

May not result in the water reaching the bottom of the pot, leaving some roots dry

Frequent watering is required as water evaporates quickly from the surface of the soil

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether to water your plants from the bottom up or from the top down depends on the type of plant, the size of the pot, the weather conditions, and your personal preference. If you’re growing plants that are prone to fungal diseases, such as African violets, it may be better to water them from the bottom up. On the other hand, if you’re growing plants that require a lot of water, such as tomatoes, watering from the top down may be more effective. Whichever method you choose, make sure you don’t overwater or underwater your plants, as this can be harmful to their growth and health.