How to Water Houseplants
Stop killing plants with kindness! Learn the right way to water and avoid the #1 cause of houseplant death.
The #1 Plant Killer
Overwatering kills more houseplants than any other cause. Roots need oxygen—when soil stays constantly wet, they suffocate and rot.
👆 The Finger Test
- 1. Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil
- 2. If it feels dry → Water thoroughly
- 3. If it feels moist → Wait a few more days
- 4. Repeat before every watering!
💧 Watering by Plant Type
Water every 2-4 weeks. Let soil dry completely between waterings. Better to underwater than overwater.
Water when top inch is dry. Most prefer consistent moisture but not soggy soil.
Keep soil consistently moist (not wet). They hate drying out completely.
Water every 2-3 weeks. These store water in their leaves—they prefer drought to wet feet.
✅ Signs You're Watering Right
- • New growth appearing
- • Leaves firm and vibrant
- • Roots white or tan
- • No mushy stems
- • Yellow leaves (overwatering)
- • Crispy brown tips (underwatering)
- • Mushy black roots (root rot)
- • Fungus gnats (too wet)
🏺 Drainage is Essential
Always use pots with drainage holes! Without them:
- • Water collects at the bottom
- • Roots can't get oxygen
- • Root rot develops
- • Plant dies from the roots up
Tip: Love a decorative pot without holes? Use it as a cachepot—put your plant in a plastic nursery pot inside it, and remove to water.
🔍 Find Plants That Match Your Watering Style
Forgetful waterer? Browse drought-tolerant plants that thrive on neglect.
Low Water Plants →