Over watering ranks first in causes of houseplant demise because it causes roots to rot. Most plants are tough so they can recover from under watering with only
loss of a few leaves -- unless you wait too long and pass
point of no return.Watering schedules depend on
kind of houseplant, its size, container, and environment. No two plants have
same water requirements, so you'll need to know what your particular plant(s) require.
Generally, it's best to water during morning hours. Most flowering plants require more water than their non-flowering counterparts. Since
needs of individual plants vary greatly, you should research your houseplant's requirements.
Test dryness of soil by probing
top inch with your finger. Tapping
side of
post also indicates
degree of wetness. If
tap sounds hollow,
plant needs water. If it sounds solid, wait a day or two to water. If a plant begins to wilt and its soil looks dry and cracked, it needs water immediately.
For plants that require moderate watering, allow 1/2 to 1-inch of soil to dry out before re-watering. If a plant needs light watering, let two-thirds of
soil dry out. For plants that need heavy watering,
surface should always be moist.