It may seem trivial when said like that, but: watering your indoor plants correctly is ESSENTIAL for their health and growth. Improper watering, whether too much or not enough, can easily lead to root rot or slowed growth...
General watering techniques
Frequency and quantity of watering
Of course, I don't think I'm telling you anything new, but it's always important to remember: the frequency of watering depends on the type of plant , the size of the pot and the environment . It's like us, we don't have the same needs and our green companions are exactly the same!
In general, tropical plants require more frequent watering, and succulents, for example, require much less frequent watering (I'll give you a guess, this is relative to their basic natural habitat 😌).
In any case, it is always a good tip to check the soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger into the soil to about 2 cm deep; if the soil feels dry, it is time to water.
The amount of water to use also varies. A good indicator is to make sure that the water reaches the roots without saturating the soil. It quickly happens that we accumulate too much water in the bottom of the pot and that is why the roots rot.
If you are using a pot with a drainage hole , you can water until water starts to flow out of the drainage hole. This will ensure that the roots are well hydrated, while preventing water stagnation.
Watering methods
There are several methods for watering your houseplants:
- Top watering : Pour water directly onto the soil around the base of the plant. This method is simple but can sometimes result in excess moisture on the soil surface. To avoid this, be careful not to wet the leaves, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
- Bottom watering : Place the plant in a saucer filled with water and let it absorb water through the drainage holes in the pot. This method allows the roots to draw up the water they need without saturating the soil. This is especially useful for plants that prefer slightly dry soil on the surface.
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Use of ollas : ollas are small microporous ceramic water reservoirs, to be planted directly in the pot. They diffuse water slowly and constantly, ensuring regular hydration without the risk of overwatering. It is an ancestral method that has been proven for almost 2000 years. It has been used a lot outdoors and especially for agriculture. But today the object is redesigned and adapted for our indoor plants 🫶🪴
This method is also particularly useful for people who don't necessarily have green fingers, who tend to forget to water their plants or those who have a busy schedule, who regularly go on trips.
Additional tips for optimal watering
- Use room temperature water : Water that is too cold can shock plant roots, while water that is too hot can burn them. Using room temperature water is ideal to avoid stressing your plants.
- Avoid standing water : Allow excess water to drain completely and empty saucers under pots to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
- Use ollas : using ollas helps regulate the water and hydration of the plant, which will come directly to get exactly the water it needs. No more risk of stagnant water, over- and under-watering. It's tranquiloo!
The benefits of ollas for continued hydration
Ollas offer several benefits for watering indoor plants:
- Regular hydration : The ollas slowly release water directly to the roots, allowing for continuous and uniform hydration, reducing water stress in plants.
- Water Saving : By distributing water efficiently and in a targeted manner, ollas reduce the amount of water needed, contributing to more sustainable gardening practices.
- Reduced risk of overwatering : Ollas prevent overwatering and root rot problems by providing just the right amount of water for plants.
- Convenience : For people with busy schedules or those who travel frequently, ollas are a convenient solution to ensure plants get the water they need without daily intervention.
Properly watering your houseplants is essential for their health and growth. By using proper watering techniques and incorporating ollas into your care routine, you can ensure optimal hydration for your plants 🫶🌱
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