WATERING INDOOR PLANTS

There are four main factors to a successful indoor garden - plants must have light, water, nourishment and a well-drained growing medium. This information sheet will focus on watering techniques.

How Much Water Do Plants Need?

Indoor plants are affected by seasonal changes. Normally a plant that enjoys frequent waterings during the warm summer months requires half (or sometimes less than half) the amount of water during winter -- the plant's rest period. In winter, the days are shorter and the amount of natural light is minimal -- watering on a weekly or regular routine is not necessary, and may do more harm than good to a plant that is not in its growing phase. Overwatering occurs most often during winter, and is responsible for killing more houseplants than anything else.

To learn exactly when plants need watering, test by inserting a finger into the potting mix to feel the degree of moisture. Alternatively, insert the handle of a wooden spoon, to test the moisture level. If the potting mix is dry to touch, or the wooden handle is dry, the plant is ready for a thorough water.

How To Water

Always water thoroughly with tepid water until the potting mix is saturated. The water should only take a minute to run through the potting mix and begin to drain. If the water runs through too quickly, the water may be running down between the rootball and the pot and not soaking into the potting mix. If this occurs, the plant may need to be submerged in a container of water. Submerge an extremely dry plant to its rim until all the air bubbles have stopped.

Alternatively, if the water is not draining, the drainage holes may be blocked. If this occurs, poke a pencil through the holes to loosen the compact soil or to dislodge other debris.

As roots do not absorb more water than the plant needs, too much water, combined with poor drainage, displaces oxygen from the soil. This suffocates and drowns the roots which causes them to rot. Rotting can be caused by the plant sitting in water left in a saucer, also. It is important to empty the saucer of excess water after watering. A turkey baster makes an excellent tool if the pot is too heavy to lift.

Some indoor plants require unusual watering techniques. Epiphytes obtain their moisture and nutrients from the air. For example, a bromeliad's leaves form a cup which is also a receptacle to hold water -- the potting mix only needs watering when it dries out. Although bromeliads are generally easy to care for, their small root system is susceptible to overwatering if the plant is left sitting in moist soil. Correct watering of some plants, like orchids, is of upmost importance to its longevity. The needs of each orchid speices can vary considerably. The soil should always be kept moist and watering with tepid water is recommended.

Too Much or Too Little?

The following chart provides a general guide to over- or under-watering symptoms.

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