Proper watering is key to keeping house plants healthy. Different plants have unique needs based on their natural environments. Below is a guide to watering common house plants, including how much and how often to water them.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Watering Needs: Low. Snake plants are drought-tolerant and store water in their leaves.
- How Much: Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot, then empty the saucer.
- How Often: Every 2–6 weeks, depending on light and season. Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Tips: Reduce watering in winter. Overwatering can cause root rot.
2. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
- Watering Needs: Moderate. Monsteras prefer consistently moist but not soggy soil.
- How Much: Water until the top inch of soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- How Often: Every 1–2 weeks. Check soil; water when the top 1–2 inches feel dry.
- Tips: Use well-draining soil. Mist leaves occasionally for humidity.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Watering Needs: Moderate. Spider plants like even moisture but can tolerate some neglect.
- How Much: Water evenly until soil is moist, ensuring good drainage.
- How Often: Every 1–2 weeks. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Tips: Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Reduce watering in low light.
4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Watering Needs: Low to moderate. Pothos are forgiving and adapt to various conditions.
- How Much: Water until soil is moist but not soaked.
- How Often: Every 1–3 weeks. Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out between waterings.
- Tips: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering. Trim back if needed.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Watering Needs: Moderate to high. Peace lilies prefer consistently moist soil.
- How Much: Water thoroughly, ensuring excess drains away.
- How Often: Every 1–2 weeks. Water when the soil feels dry or leaves start to droop.
- Tips: Drooping is a sign it needs water. Mist leaves to boost humidity.
6. Succulents (e.g., Echeveria, Haworthia)
- Watering Needs: Low. Succulents store water in their leaves and stems.
- How Much: Water sparingly, soaking the soil then letting it dry completely.
- How Often: Every 2–4 weeks. Water less in winter.
- Tips: Use a well-draining cactus mix. Avoid getting water on leaves.
7. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
- Watering Needs: Moderate. Fiddle leaf figs need consistent but careful watering.
- How Much: Water until soil is moist, ensuring no standing water in the saucer.
- How Often: Every 1–2 weeks. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Tips: Too much water causes leaf drop. Ensure bright, indirect light.
General Watering Tips
- Check Soil: Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil to gauge dryness.
- Drainage: Always use pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
- Water Quality: Use room-temperature water; avoid softened water due to salt content.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Most plants need less water in winter due to slower growth.
- Observe Your Plant: Wilting, yellowing, or soggy soil can indicate over- or underwatering.
Adjust watering based on your home’s light, humidity, and temperature. Each plant is unique, so monitor and adapt to its specific needs.