The most important part of caring for houseplants is watering. It’s simple, but often misunderstood. Watering is not as simple as pouring water on the plant and hoping for the best results. It involves timing, observation and an understanding of how plants react to moisture. We at Happy Houseplants want to remove the guesswork from watering. Here’s what you need to do.

What happens when you water a flower?

Your plants need water to stay healthy. Water helps maintain structure (plants will wilt if they are thirsty, as their cells deflate), regulates temperature, and allows nutrients to pass through the plant. You also activate transpiration when you water. This is a natural process in which moisture from the leaves evaporates, pulling new water up from the roots.

If your plant is unable to draw water from its roots, it will start taking it from its leaves, which can cause them to droop or curl. Knowing when to water your plants is crucial.

How frequently should you water your houseplants?

Different plants require different care. Consider where your plants are from in nature.

Cacti and succulents can adapt to dry, hot environments. They prefer soils that dry completely between waterings. Wait a week or so before watering them again after the compost has dried completely.

Tropical plants, like Monstera deliciosa, are accustomed to humid air and regular rain. These plants will benefit from weekly watering or a little more in warm conditions.

Check the soil before planting any plant. Test the soil with your finger. Hold off if it is still wet. It’s best to water if it’s not moist.

How many litres of water should I use?

The soil acts as a sponge. The more soil, the longer it can hold moisture. This means:

The plants in small containers may dry out more quickly and require watering more frequently.

Plants in larger containers will retain moisture for longer, and you won’t have to check them as often.

Water the soil until it is moist but not soggy. Water pots with drainage holes until the water runs out. Let the plant absorb any excess from the saucer for 15-30 minutes before dumping the remainder. Pots with no drainage should be watered carefully, with the aim of using less than one-quarter of the volume.

How To Water Properly

Use water at room temperature. Use room-temperature water.

Let the water sit overnight. This allows the chlorine to evaporate.

The base of the plant should be watered evenly and slowly.

If you have epiphytes such as air plants, avoid splashing water onto the leaves.

Check soil moisture levels before watering.

Do you need to follow a schedule for watering?

Not really. Although it is helpful to check in on your plants every week, watering according to a set schedule can do more harm than good. The soil will tell you when to water your plants, not a calendar. You can overwater some plants or underwater others if you water every Sunday.

Use this time to check which plants need water. Be sure to check the soil, leaves, and pot’s weight. You can tell if a plant is thirsty by its signs. The most important one is dry soil.

What is the effect of seasons on watering requirements?

Most plants will grow and dry faster in summer when the days and light are longer and stronger. You might find:

Tropical plants require watering once or twice a week.

Cacti and succulents, which needed water every month during winter, now require it every 7-10 days.

In winter, the opposite is true. Plants use less water when temperatures are lower and less light is available. Adjust your watering schedule according to the season.

Tips for better watering

Warm or tepid water will improve absorption.

Do not let water remain on tropical leaves. This can cause rot and fungal problems.

If you are unsure about when to water your plants, use a moisture meter or the finger test.

Plant placement is important. Plants in areas with bright sunlight will dry faster than plants in corners that are shady.

In case of doubt, it is safer to stay underwater than above the surface. It’s always possible to add more water.

Still unsure? We’ve got you covered.

You’re not the only one who has had trouble with watering in the past. In our guide, How Not to Kill Your Houseplants, we discuss watering, soil health, and light in greater detail.

If you are also feeding your plants, be sure to use the right product. Our best-sellers include:

Original Vegan Plant food – gentle and organic, easy to use.

Vegan Cactus & Succulent food – formulated for low-water plants.

Discover more care tips. Want to learn more about feeding, repotting or choosing the best compost? Our Houseplant Blog is the UK’s most popular resource for lovers of houseplants.