Introduction
Watering houseplants sounds simple—just pour water in and walk away, right? Not exactly. Improper watering is the #1 cause of houseplant struggles, from droopy leaves to root rot. Whether you’re new to the plant lovers club or a seasoned jungle junkie, understanding how to water houseplants correctly can make the difference between thriving greenery and a sad, crispy collection.
This guide answers the most common questions people Google about watering houseplants:
How often should you water houseplants?
Is bottom watering better than top watering?
How do you know if soil is dry enough to water?
What is flushing and why do plants need it?
Why do some plants need to dry out while others don’t?
What happens if you overwater or underwater?
Let’s dig in.
How Often Should You Water Houseplants?
There isn’t a universal schedule. Instead, water based on your plant’s needs and environment. Tropical plants like ferns often prefer evenly moist soil, while succulents and cacti need their soil to dry out completely between waterings.
How Do You Know If Soil Is Dry?
Checking soil moisture is the single most important step in avoiding both overwatering and underwatering. Here’s how:
Finger test: Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Moisture meters: Great for beginners, but cross-check with your finger.
Weight test: Lift the pot—dry soil is much lighter than moist soil.
Is Bottom Watering Better Than Top Watering?
Bottom Watering
Bottom watering means setting your pot in a dish or sink of water, allowing moisture to wick upward through the drainage holes.
Pros:
Prevents fungus gnats (they thrive in damp topsoil).
Encourages deep root growth.
Reduces soil compaction.
Cons:
Takes longer.
Doesn’t flush out mineral or fertilizer buildup.
Not practical for very large plants.
Top Watering
Top watering is when you pour water onto the soil surface.
Pros:
Quicker and easier.
Hydrates the entire soil profile.
Flushes out fertilizer salts and mineral deposits.
Cons:
Can compact soil if poured too fast.
Water left on leaves may encourage disease in some species.
Best method? Alternate between the two. Use bottom watering for routine hydration and top watering occasionally to flush the soil.
What Is Flushing and Why Do Plants Need It?
Flushing is when you water a plant thoroughly from the top, letting excess water drain away. It washes out salts and minerals that build up from fertilizers or tap water. Without flushing, roots can burn or growth can stall. Most houseplants benefit from flushing every 1–2 months.
For more info on feeding and flushing, check out our Fertilizers 101 Guide.
Why Should You Give Plants a Good Drink Instead of Small Sips?
Tiny sips of water only moisten the topsoil, leaving roots dehydrated. A deep soak ensures water reaches the entire root system and prevents dry pockets in the soil. Always water until it drains from the bottom of the pot.
Why Do Some Plants Need to Dry Out More Than Others?
Different plants evolved in different climates:
Succulents & Cacti: Native to arid regions; prefer soil to dry completely between waterings.
Tropical Plants (e.g., Calatheas, Ferns): Thrive in consistently moist, humid conditions.
Aroids (e.g., Philodendrons, Monsteras): Prefer soil that dries slightly between waterings.
Knowing your plant type is half the battle. We have Care instructions under the product descriptions on our website or more in depth information on our blogs!
Why Is Drainage So Important?
Without proper drainage, water pools at the bottom of the pot, suffocating roots and causing root rot. Always:
Use pots with drainage holes.
Pair plants with the right pot material:
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Terracotta: Breathable, dries faster.
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Plastic/Ceramic: Retains moisture longer. Our Kanso Designs pots and matching trays are our favorite for functionality and aesthetic.
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Choose a chunky, well-draining potting mix.
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What Causes Overwatering vs. Underwatering?
Signs of Overwatering
Yellowing leaves
Mushy stems or roots
Soil stays soggy and smells musty
How to avoid: Always check soil before watering, and make sure drainage holes are clear.
Signs of Underwatering
Crispy, brown leaf edges
Wilting or drooping
Soil shrinking away from pot edges
How to avoid: Check soil more often in warm months and always water deeply.
What Other Factors Affect Watering Needs?
Several conditions change how quickly soil dries:
Light: Bright light = faster drying. Low light = slower.
Temperature & Humidity: Warm, dry air dries plants faster than cool, humid air.
Pot Size & Material: Small pots dry out faster; terracotta breathes more than plastic.
Plant Type: Desert vs. tropical needs vary widely.
Water Type: Some plants (like Calatheas or Spider Plants) are sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water—rainwater, distilled, or filtered water is safer.
Should You Add Fertilizer When Watering?
Yes—during the growing season (spring/summer), most houseplants benefit from diluted fertilizer added to their water every 2–4 weeks. Just don’t overdo it, and remember to flush the soil regularly to prevent salt buildup.
Curious about the best fertilizers? Read our Houseplant Fertilizer Guide.
Final Thoughts
Watering houseplants is less about a strict schedule and more about observation. Check your soil, understand your plant’s natural habitat, and always aim for deep, thorough watering. With the right balance, you’ll avoid the pitfalls of overwatering and underwatering while helping your plants thrive.
Whether your vibe is desert-dry succulents or lush tropicals, mastering watering is the first step to a thriving indoor jungle.
When in doubt contact us and we can help support your plant care needs