How Often Should I Water My Plants?

It's the most googled plant question ever: "How often should I water my plants?" If you're hoping for a simple answer like "every 7 days," we hate to disappoint you. But don't worry, we'll help you figure out exactly what YOUR plants need.

Why There's No Magic Number

We know you want a schedule. "Water every Tuesday" sounds so easy! But here's why that doesn't work:

Your plant's water needs change constantly based on:

• The season: Plants drink more in spring/summer when actively growing
• The weather: Hot, dry days = thirstier plants
• Your home's humidity: Heating and AC dry out the air (and soil)
• The pot size: Small pots dry out faster
• The pot material: Terra cotta dries faster than plastic
• The soil type: Some mixes hold water longer than others
• The plant itself: A thirsty peace lily drinks more than a drought-tolerant snake plant
• Light levels: Brighter light = more water use

A plant that needs water every 5 days in July might only need it every 3 weeks in December. Same plant, same pot, but a completely different schedule.

The Real Answer: Check, Don't Schedule

Instead of watering on a schedule, water based on what the plant actually needs. This means checking the soil before watering, every time.

Think about it this way: you don't eat on a strict schedule regardless of hunger. You eat when you're hungry! Plants are the same. Water them when they're thirsty.

How to Know When Your Plant Is Thirsty

Method 1: The Finger Test

Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil. Dry? Probably time to water. Still moist? Wait a few days.

Method 2: The Lift Test

Pick up the pot. Light? The soil is dry. Heavy? Still wet. You'll learn to feel the difference.

Method 3: Use a Moisture Sensor

Tools like FieldBonnet take the guesswork out entirely. Just glance at the light to see if your plant needs water.

Method 4: Watch Your Plant

Some plants give visual cues. Peace lilies droop dramatically when thirsty (don't worry, they perk right back up). Succulents get wrinkly. Learn your plant's tells!

General Guidelines (Use as Starting Points Only)

While there's no universal schedule, here are some very general guidelines to use as starting points:

Succulents and Cacti

Every 2-4 weeks in growing season; monthly or less in winter

Most Tropical Houseplants

(Pothos, philodendron, monstera, etc.)

Every 1-2 weeks in growing season; every 2-3 weeks in winter

Ferns and Moisture Lovers

Every few days to once a week; they like consistent moisture

Fiddle Leaf Figs and Rubber Plants

Every 1-2 weeks; let top inch dry between waterings

Signs You're Overwatering

• Yellowing leaves (especially lower leaves)
• Mushy, black spots on stems
• Fungus gnats flying around
• Soil that stays wet for weeks
• Moldy or smelly soil
• Root rot (brown, mushy roots)

Signs You're Underwatering

• Droopy, wilting leaves
• Crispy, brown leaf edges
• Leaves falling off
• Soil pulling away from pot edges
• Very slow or no growth
• Wrinkled leaves (in succulents)

Tips for Watering Success

1. Water Thoroughly

When you do water, water deeply until it runs out the drainage holes. This ensures the whole root ball gets moisture and encourages roots to grow downward.

2. Don't Let Plants Sit in Water

Empty the saucer after watering. Roots sitting in standing water can rot.

3. Use Room Temperature Water

Very cold water can shock roots. Let tap water sit for a bit before using.

4. Water in the Morning

Morning watering gives excess moisture time to evaporate during the day, reducing disease risk.

5. Adjust for Seasons

Cut back in fall and winter when growth slows. Increase in spring when plants wake up.

Make It Easy on Yourself

The whole point of having plants is to enjoy them, not stress about them. Here's how to simplify:

• Group thirsty plants together and water them all at once
• Choose lower-maintenance plants if you travel often or forget
• Use self-watering pots for moisture-loving plants
• Get a moisture sensor to take the guesswork out