It might sound trivial when put like that, but: watering your indoor plants correctly is ESSENTIAL for their health and growth. Improper watering — whether too much or too little — can easily lead to root rot or stunted growth...
General watering techniques
Watering frequency and quantity
Of course, I'm not telling you anything you don't already know, but it's always worth a reminder: watering frequency depends on the type of plant, the pot size and the environment. Just like us, our green companions don't all have the same needs — it's exactly the same!
In general, tropical plants need watering more frequently, and succulents, for example, need watering much less often (you can probably guess why — it's all down to their natural habitat 😌).
In any case, it's always a good tip to check the soil moisture before watering. Push your finger into the soil to about 2 cm deep; if the soil is dry, it's time to water.
The amount of water to use also varies. A good indicator is to make sure the water reaches the roots without saturating the soil. It's easy for too much water to build up at the bottom of the pot — and that's exactly why roots rot.
If you use a pot with a drainage hole, you can water until water starts to flow through the drainage hole. This will ensure good hydration of the roots while preventing water stagnation.
Watering methods
There are several methods for watering your indoor plants:
- Top watering: pour water directly onto the soil around the base of the plant. This method is simple but can sometimes lead to excess moisture on the soil surface. To avoid this, be careful not to wet the leaves, as this can encourage the development of fungal diseases.
- Bottom watering: place the plant in a saucer filled with water and let it absorb water through the drainage holes of the pot. This method allows the roots to draw the water they need without saturating the soil. It is particularly useful for plants that prefer a slightly dry surface.
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Using ollas: ollas are small water reservoirs made of microporous ceramic, planted directly into the pot. They release water slowly and consistently, ensuring regular hydration without the risk of overwatering. It's an ancient method that has been proving its worth for nearly 2,000 years. It was widely used outdoors, particularly in agriculture. But today the object has been 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 with a busy schedule who are regularly on the go.
Additional tips for optimal watering
- Use water at room temperature: Water that is too cold can shock plant roots, while water that is too hot can burn them. Using water at room temperature is ideal to avoid stressing your plants.
- Avoid stagnant water: Allow excess water to drain away completely and empty the saucers under the pots to prevent water build-up, which can lead to root rot.
- Use ollas: using ollas helps regulate the water and hydration of the plant, which will draw exactly the water it needs. No more risk of stagnant water, overwatering or underwatering. Easy peasy!
The benefits of ollas for continuous hydration
ollas offer several benefits for watering indoor plants:
- Regular hydration: ollas slowly release water directly to the roots, allowing for continuous and even hydration, reducing water stress in plants.
- Water saving: By releasing water efficiently and precisely, ollas reduce the amount of water needed, contributing to more sustainable gardening practices.
- Reduced risk of overwatering: ollas prevent overwatering and root rot issues by supplying plants with exactly the amount of water they need.
- Convenience: For people with a busy schedule or those who travel frequently, ollas are a practical solution to ensure plants receive the water they need without daily intervention.
Watering your indoor plants correctly is essential for their health and growth. By using appropriate watering techniques and incorporating ollas into your care routine, you can ensure optimal hydration for your plants 🫶🌱
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