Water is essential for life, composed of hydrogen and oxygen, and is crucial for all living organisms on Earth.

While watering your plants seems simple, figuring out how much and how often can be a bit trickier.

Fortunately, we have some tips to help you water your plants for optimal health!

What does watering your plants do?

Water plays a crucial role in providing structural support, cooling your plant, and transporting essential minerals throughout the plant. Think of plant cells like water balloons. When filled with water, they become firm, allowing the plant to stand tall. When water is scarce, the cells deflate, causing the plant to wilt, often accompanied by dry soil—an obvious sign your plant needs more water.

When you water your plant, a process called transpiration occurs. The sun causes water to evaporate from the leaves through small pores called stomata, which results in water loss. This is beneficial, as it directs water to areas where it's needed most. Ideally, water is pulled up from the roots, but if the roots are dry, the plant will pull moisture from the leaves.

How often should water plants?

Just like different plants require varying amounts of light, their water needs also differ. To determine how often to water, consider the natural environment of your houseplants: Are they from hot and dry regions, or are they accustomed to tropical rain?

Succulents, native to desert climates, thrive on minimal watering. These plants, with characteristics like fleshy leaves, thick stems, or rhizomes, are designed to store moisture and withstand drought. For succulents, ensure the potting mix dries out completely before watering again, typically every few weeks.

In contrast, tropical plants like the Monstera deliciosa or Bird's Nest Fern are accustomed to regular rainfall in their native habitats. Without adaptations for water storage, these plants prefer more frequent watering about once a week, so they can stay hydrated and healthy.

How much should water plants?

The amount of water your plant needs depends not only on its variety but also on the size of its containers.

How to Water

Check the soil: Most plants prefer the soil to dry out completely between waterings, but moisture-loving plants like ferns can be watered when the soil is mostly dry.

Prepare the water: Fill a watering can with room temperature water. If your plant is sensitive to tap water, consider letting it sit out overnight before watering.

Water the soil evenly: Pour water around the base of the plant, ensuring the soil is saturated but not flooded. Avoid getting water on the plant’s leaves, as this can lead to fungal or bacterial issues. (Epiphytic plants, however, don’t require soil and may need a different watering approach.)

Watering amount: Let any water in the saucer or cache pots sit for 15-30 minutes to allow the plant’s roots to absorb it, then discard the excess.

Should a watering schedule be set?

While it's important for us to stay hydrated, plants can drown if over-watered. Over-watering occurs when soil stays too wet for too long, causing the plant to droop or develop root rot. On the other hand, consistently dry soil leads to under-watering.

Pro tip: It's easier to add water to soil than to remove it. If unsure, err on the side of under-watering rather than over-watering.

Do the seasons impact how much water plants need?

Seasonal changes affect your plants' growth indoors. During the summer, the sun is stronger and lasts longer, which increases your plant's need for water. For instance, succulents that might have gone a month without water during their semi-dormant winter state may need watering weekly in the summer. Tropical plants may need water twice a week in summer, compared to every 1–2 weeks in winter.

What else should be known about watering houseplants?

Here are some essential tips for watering plants:

1. Most houseplants prefer warm or tepid water, as cold water can shock them. Warm water absorbs better into the soil.

2. Some plants are sensitive to tap water. Let it sit overnight to allow chlorine to dissipate before use.

3. Plants in larger pots dry out more slowly than those in smaller pots due to the larger volume of soil.

4. Try to avoid splashing water onto the plant’s leaves when watering. Interestingly, many tropical plants have waxy leaves to prevent excessive rainfall from soaking them, helping water slide off and reducing the risk of fungal infections.

5. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light—unless dealing with drought-tolerant succulents.

6. To avoid over-watering, look for signs of thirst first, such as wrinkling leaves in succulents or drooping stems in tropical plants, especially when paired with dry potting soil.