I've heard mixed opinions about bottom watering my houseplants, particularly regarding whether I should let excess water sit in the decorative pot. My plants are still in their original plastic pots with drainage holes, sitting inside a nicer decorative pot. When I water them, water drains through the holes and collects at the bottom. Should I leave that water there for a while as a form of bottom watering, or is it better to empty it out after watering? I've been doing well with my plants so far, but they could look better!
4 Answers
It's not ideal to leave water sitting in the bottom pot for too long. You can use it for bottom watering, but make sure to dump any extra water after about an hour. This way, your plants can soak up just what they need without drowning.
Got it! Is it the same for general bottom watering techniques? I've tried leaving plants in the bath for a while when I was away, and they seemed fine. Was that just lucky?
I see watering plants as a bit like maintaining a balanced diet! I recommend your method but mix it up by watering from above once a month until water drains clear. Let them soak for 5-15 minutes, depending on their size, and then shake out the excess. It's all about finding what works for you, and a little love goes a long way!
You do want to empty out that standing water within a few hours, especially for sensitive plants. But if your plants are hearty, a bit of extra moisture might not hurt them.
Your watering routine sounds alright, but have you checked if your pots are too small? If they’re rootbound, that might explain why they aren't looking their best lately!
Totally agree! The outer pot is great for keeping moisture, but excess should definitely be drained to keep the roots healthy.