Improper watering leads to many problems, such as wilting and stunted growth. For this reason, you need to water your houseplants properly to keep them healthy. Nick’s Garden Center in Denver has compiled the best watering tips to help you avoid messes and get your plants blooming.
Common Challenges When Watering Indoors
There are two main problems with watering houseplants – overwatering and under watering. The two issues occur when you don’t know the quantity of water your plant needs. Furthermore, challenges result when you use the wrong watering tools. Whatever the cause, use the following ideas to streamline watering:
1. Choosing the Right Watering Tools
Proper watering of houseplants starts with the right tools. These appliances make watering more manageable. One of the most essential tools for this purpose is a can with a narrow spout. It delivers water to the plant’s base without splashing nearby surfaces. Other watering tools you need to avoid mess and keep your indoor plants thriving are:
- Self-watering planters. A self-watering planter provides a constant supply of moisture for your plants. With this watering system, you can no longer water your houseplants by hand.
- Moisture meter for plants. The meter keeps track of the moisture content in your planter. It helps you know when to water your houseplants.
- Plant pot saucers. This accessory is placed under the flower pot to trap water overflowing from the flower pot.
2. Choosing the Right Plant Containers
Good planters have adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Such planters prevent problems, such as root rot, fungal growth, and yellowing of leaves. Furthermore, suitable planters are large enough for the roots of your houseplant to grow and spread.
3. Watering Techniques for Different Types of Plants
No one watering technique works for all types of plants. Thus, you should use the proper watering technique for your type of houseplant. Here is an overview of watering techniques for various houseplants:
- Flowering plants. Irrigate the plant’s root zone, ensuring the flowers have little or no contact with water. This will protect the flowers from fungal diseases, discoloration, and premature wilting.
- Foliage plants. Water the soil thoroughly, ensuring that the entire root zone is moistened. Allow excess water to drain out entirely so you avoid waterlogging.
- Succulents and cacti. Since succulents and cacti prefer drier conditions, limit the number of times you water them. Water the soil and let it dry out before watering again.
4. Managing Drainage
Good drainage is vital for indoor plant survival. It prevents root rot and reduces susceptibility to fungal diseases. In addition, improved drainage promotes nutrient uptake and protects against water damage.
How can you improve water drainage? Choose planters with adequate drainage holes at the bottom. The holes allow excess water to drain away, preventing waterlogging. Unblock the drainage holes from time to time to improve drainage.
5. Optimal Water Techniques
Optimal irrigation means providing the right amount of water, considering the pot size, plant species, and climate. This optimal watering method prevents over and under-watering, root rot, and fungal diseases. Some of the most critical techniques for optimal watering are:
- Watering directly at the base without touching the foliage
- Watering plants until water seeps from the drainage holes
- Allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering
- Letting excess water drain freely from the container
6. Watering When you are Traveling
When traveling, water your houseplants just before you leave. After watering, keep the plant container shaded to minimize water loss. If you travel regularly, invest in self-watering planters. This container will keep your plants watered while you are away.
Learn More About Caring for Indoor Plants from Nick’s Garden Center
Keeping healthy houseplants is a challenge, more so if you are doing it for the first time. You need to understand the plant’s specific needs, choose the right equipment, and establish a watering routine.
Without a horticultural background, you can end up ruining your indoor greenery. That’s where our full-service garden steps in. We offer plant care advice tailored to your type of indoor plant.
Contact us to learn more about caring for your indoor plant.
