I'm a bit confused about the best way to water my plants. Should I water just a little bit so it drains out the holes, or should I water until it really drains through? I'm wondering what the best technique is, since it might depend on the type of plant. Also, what about the method of watering—should I water from the top or the bottom? Would love some clarity on this!
3 Answers
Bottom watering is fantastic, especially for cacti and succulents! Just pour water into the outer pot and let them soak for 15-30 minutes, then drain any excess. Some people swear by bottom watering for all plants, but I personally find it a bit tedious for every plant. My tip? Get a moisture meter—it's cheap and makes watering so much easier. Don’t set a strict schedule; instead, check about three times a week to see which plants need it! They’ll thank you for it!
A good way to water is to use a pitcher—start by pouring a little water on the soil and waiting for it to soak in. Repeat this until the soil is all damp and the pot feels heavier. If the water sinks slowly, try using a skewer to aerate the soil. Ideally, you want the soil to dry out completely after about a week before watering again. If it’s super compact, you might want to refresh it with a grittier mix to help with absorption.
When it comes to watering, I always pour until I see water coming out the bottom of the pot. After that, I usually check the moisture with a water meter to make sure the soil is damp. Sometimes the soil can become hydrophobic, preventing it from soaking up water. If that happens, I let the pot sit in some water for a bit to let it absorb what it needs. Remember, if you only water a little, minerals build up and the pH of the soil can change, so make sure to water thoroughly! A water meter is really handy for keeping your plants healthy without the guesswork.
I'm thinking of getting a moisture meter now! But will it indicate when I should water different types of plants? I know some need more water than others.