Mastering Plant Watering: How to Avoid Overwatering and Underwatering Your Plants

Watering your plants correctly is one of the most crucial aspects of plant care, yet it’s also one of the most common challenges for gardeners. Overwatering or underwatering can stress your plants, cause root rot, or stunt growth. But don’t worry—once you understand the signs and techniques, watering your plants will become second nature. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid overwatering and underwatering while keeping your plants healthy and thriving.

How to Know When to Water Your Plants

The key to proper watering is timing. Plants have different needs, but there are a few general signs that will tell you when it’s time to water:

1. Touch Test: The best way to check if your plant needs water is by sticking your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few more days before checking again. You can also use a wooden stick, like a chopstick or plant dowel, to do this. Insert the stick into the soil, then pull it out and check its moisture level. If the stick comes out dry or with little to no soil clinging to it, it’s time to water. If the stick is damp, your plant can wait a little longer. This method works well, especially for deeper pots where it’s harder to reach the soil with your finger.

2. Leaf Wilting: If your plant's leaves are drooping or wilting, it might need a drink. But be careful: this could also be a sign of overwatering, so check the soil first!

To demonstrate here's our lovely (but very dramatic) Variegated Peace Lily

3. Yellowing Leaves: If your plant’s leaves are turning yellow or soft, it might be a sign of overwatering. Ensure the soil has proper drainage and that you’re not watering too frequently.

4. Moisture Meter: For more accuracy, you can also use a moisture meter, which helps you monitor the moisture level at various soil depths. This tool is particularly helpful for deeper pots and provides a clear reading of your plant's hydration needs.

   
   
   
   

How to Avoid Overwatering

A common misconception about overwatering is that it’s simply about how much water you give your plant. However, the amount of water isn’t the primary issue—it’s how the water drains and the time between waterings. Overwatering actually occurs when there is inadequate drainage in the pot, preventing excess water from escaping. Without drainage, water can pool at the bottom of the pot, leading to root rot. Additionally, overwatering happens when the soil doesn’t have enough time to dry out between waterings. Plants need periods of dryness to allow their roots to breathe and prevent waterlogged soil. It’s essential to let the soil dry out thoroughly before watering again and ensure that your pots have proper drainage to keep your plants healthy. Keep in mind that every plant has its own tolerance for moisture—some plants prefer to stay consistently moist, while others thrive when allowed to dry out between waterings.

Here’s how to avoid it:

1. Check Drainage: Always ensure your pots/plant liner have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. If your pots/plant liner doesn’t have holes, water can pool at the bottom and cause the roots to rot.

2. Water Less Frequently: It’s often better to underwater than overwater. Many plants prefer drying out between waterings. Research the specific needs of your plants to know how often they should be watered.

3. Use Well-Draining Soil: The type of soil you use plays a big role in how well your plant can drain excess water. A good, well-draining potting mix will help prevent water from sitting in the soil for too long, reducing the risk of root rot. Choosing the right soil can make all the difference in plant health. If you're interested in creating your own perfect soil mix tailored to your plants' needs, check out our next blog post on how to create a custom soil blend that ensures optimal drainage and nourishment!

4. Don’t Let the Plant Sit in Water: If you’re using a decorative pot, be sure to empty any excess water that collects at the bottom. Letting your plant sit in water can cause the roots to rot over time.

   
   

   Tip: Bottom Watering for Healthy Plants

   A great technique to ensure your plants get just the right amount of water is bottom watering. This method involves placing your plant in a shallow dish or tray filled with water and letting the plant soak it up from the bottom(for about 30 minutes).

   
   

   Here’s why we recommend bottom watering

   • Prevents Overwatering: Bottom watering helps prevent water from sitting on top of the soil, which can encourage root rot. By allowing the water to be absorbed from the bottom, you ensure that the plant takes in only what it needs.

   • Reduces Soil Disturbance: With bottom watering, you won’t disturb the soil surface or displace the top layer of soil, keeping everything neat and intact.

   • Prevents Gnats: One major benefit of bottom watering is that it keeps the surface of the soil drier. When the top layer of soil remains dry, it’s less likely to attract pesky gnats or other pests that thrive in moist conditions.

   • Encourages Healthy Root Growth: Bottom watering encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil as they search for water, promoting stronger root systems and healthier plants.

     
     

   This is why we recommend placing every plant in a plant liner inside a pot. With a removable liner, bottom watering becomes an easier task, allowing you to water your plants without disturbing the soil or worrying about water pooling at the bottom of your pot. Check out our blog on Pots vs Plant Liners for more information.

   
   
   
   

How to Avoid Underwatering

Underwatering is just as harmful as overwatering. If you let your plants go too long without water, they can become stressed and unhealthy. Here’s how to avoid this:

1. Establish a Watering Routine: Set a schedule for checking your plants’ moisture levels. While some plants need water once a week, others might need it more often. Regularly check your plants to ensure they’re getting the right amount.

2. Know Your Plant’s Needs: Different plants have different water requirements. Some prefer consistently moist soil, while others, like succulents, prefer to dry out between waterings. Get to know your plant’s specific needs to prevent underwatering.

3. Watch the Weather: Plants might need more water during hot weather or if they’re placed in a sunny spot. Pay attention to environmental factors and adjust your watering schedule as needed.

Final Thoughts

Watering plants is not as complicated as it may seem. By learning to recognize when your plants need water, and understanding the right techniques to avoid over or underwatering, you can set yourself up for success. Bottom watering is an excellent method to ensure proper hydration while preventing common issues like gnats and overwatering.

Remember, every plant has its own unique needs, so take the time to research your specific plants and adjust your watering habits accordingly. With the right care, your plants will thrive and continue to bring beauty to your home or garden.

Happy gardening!