How Often Should You Water Indoor Plants?

February 2, 2025

28 mins read

Watering plants is one of the most important things you can do, but it’s also one of the easiest things to mess up. A lot of plant owners either water their plants too often, which causes root rot, or they don’t water them at all for too long, which makes them wilt and dry out. But here’s the truth: there isn’t a single way to water every home plant that works for all of them. The right frequency varies on many things, such as the type of plant, the potting mix, the container, and the environment. A fern that likes wet places, like a bathroom, will have very different needs than a succulent that likes dry places, like direct sunshine.

This article will explain how often you should water your home plants based on their specific needs, the weather, and the time of year. You will also learn how to tell if a plant really needs water, the best way to water it so it doesn’t get hurt, and how to change your routine as the seasons change. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to take care of your flowers without having to guess. Allow us to begin!

Things that affect how often you water

There is no one right way to water indoor plants; it depends on a lot of biological and environmental factors. Some plants do better when the soil is always wet, while others do better when it’s not watered at all.

Overwatering is the leading cause of houseplant failure, with 70-80% of indoor plant deaths attributed to root suffocation and fungal pathogens (Pythium and Phytophthora) (Chalker-Scott, 2020)

On the other hand, plants that don’t get enough water wilt, lose leaves, and grow slowly. When deciding how often to water, you should think about the type of plant, the soil, the pot, the weather, and the seasons. We’ll break these important factors down below so you can come up with a watering schedule that fits the needs of your plants.

Plant Type

Based on where they live naturally and how their bodies have changed over time, different plants need different amounts of water. If you know where a plant comes from, you can make sure it gets the right amount of water.

Some plants that grow in dry deserts are succulents and cacti. Their thick leaves and stems store water. They like it dry, so you should only water them when the soil is completely dry, which is usually every two to three weeks. The fastest way to kill them is to give them too much water.
Ferns, Calatheas, Peace Lilies, Monsteras, and other tropical plants get their water from humid rainforests where the ground stays moist but not soaked. They need water about once a week or whenever the soil above 1 to 2 inches feels dry.
Orchids, air plants, and bromeliads are examples of epiphytes. These plants get their water from the air instead of the soil. Depending on the humidity, they need to be misted or soaked every 7–10 days.
Plants That Don’t Need Much Care (Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, Pothos, etc.): These plants can live for a long time without water. Depending on the light and humidity, they usually need to be watered every two to four weeks.

If you are interested in more detail I recommend you read my The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Plant Care.

Potting soil and water flow

The type of soil you have has a lot to do with how well it drains and holds water. The right mix of soil makes sure that plants get enough water without their roots drying out.

Soil That Drains Well: This is important for succulents, cacti, and aroids (like monsteras and pothos). A mix of potting soil, perlite, and sand lets more air into the soil and keeps water from pooling around the roots.
Soil That Holds Water → Peat-based mixes are great for tropical plants like ferns and calatheas because they keep water well. Adding vermiculite or coconut coir can help keep the right amount of moisture in the soil.
Risks of Poor Drainage: Soil that is too dense and heavy holds on to water for too long, which causes root rot. It could be too dense if the soil doesn’t dry in a week. You may need to add more soil or repot the plants.

Type and Size of Pot

How often you need to water your plant depends a lot on the type of material and size of the pot it’s in.

Terracotta pots soak up water from the soil and help it evaporate, which makes them perfect for plants that like it dry, like cacti and succulents. These pots need to be watered more often than ceramic or plastic ones.
Plastic and ceramic pots keep water in for longer, so plants in them don’t need to be watered as often. But they make it more likely that plants will get too much water if the drainage isn’t good enough.
Pot Size Is Important →
- Because they hold less soil and water.
- Too much water stays in pots that are too big for the plant, which raises the risk of root rot.

The size of a plant’s root system determines its water needs. Smaller pots dry out faster due to their higher surface area-to-volume ratio, leading to quicker evaporation. A 2020 study in Horticultural Science found that plants grown in oversized containers are more prone to overwatering, as excess soil retains moisture longer than the plant requires (Smith & Delgado, 2020).

Conditions in the environment

Light, temperature, humidity, and airflow in your home all have a direct effect on how quickly soil dries out.

Exposure to Light
- The soil dries out faster around plants that are in bright, direct light, like those that are near a south-facing window.
- Plants that don’t get much light need to be watered less often because they use water more slowly.
How hot and humid it is
- Warm, dry air (which is common in homes that are heated in the winter) speeds up evaporation, so plants need to be watered more often.
- Because high humidity slows water loss, plants that grow in humid places don’t need to be watered as often.
Changes of Season
- In the spring and summer, plants are actively growing and need more water because their metabolisms are working harder.
- In the fall and winter, many houseplants go into a dormant phase. To keep their roots from rotting, they need less water.

Moving air and ventilation

Having enough airflow helps keep the soil from getting too wet. If the air doesn’t move, the soil can stay wet for too long, which can cause fungi to grow. If you don’t have enough airflow where your plants are, you might want to use a small fan or put them near a window that lets air flow in from the side.

How to Determine When to Water Your Plants

Watering on a fixed schedule might seem convenient, but it’s not always best for your plants. Instead of sticking to a rigid routine, learn to recognize when your plants actually need water. There are several simple yet effective methods to determine soil moisture levels, preventing both overwatering and underwatering. Here’s how to check if it’s time to water your indoor plants.

The Finger Test (Easy & Reliable Method)

One of the most straightforward ways to check soil moisture is by using your finger.

Insert your finger about 1–2 inches into the soil.
If the soil feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water.
If it still feels moist or cool, wait a few more days before checking again.

Best for: Most houseplants, especially tropical plants like pothos, ferns, and philodendrons.

Tip: For deep-rooted plants in large pots, the finger test might not be accurate since the surface may dry out while the lower layers remain wet. In these cases, try another method below.

The Weight Test (Perfect for Beginners)

Soil becomes noticeably lighter when dry, making the weight test a foolproof way to determine if your plant needs water.

Pick up the pot and feel its weight right after watering.
Let the plant go a few days without watering and lift it again.
If it feels significantly lighter, it’s time to water.
If it still feels heavy, the soil retains moisture, and you should wait.

Best for: Small to medium-sized potted plants, succulents, and plants in plastic or terracotta pots.

How to Use a Moisture Meter (For People Who Want Accuracy)

A moisture meter gives an accurate reading of the amount of water in the soil for people who like to be exact. You put the probe into the ground and the device shows you a number reading, usually on a scale from 1 to 10.

If it’s between 1 and 3, the soil is dry and needs water.
A reading of 4–7 means there is moderate moisture, so don’t water right away.
The soil is very wet and should be left alone if the reading is 8–10.

Best for: big plants, pots that are very deep, and plants that need a lot of water, like fiddle-leaf figs and calatheas.

Taking a look at the leaves and soil (Looking for Signs)

When plants need water or have too much of it, they show clear signs.

Signs That Your Plant Needs Water (Symptoms of Not Enough Water):

Worn-out or drooping leaves.
There are leaf edges that are dry, crispy, or curled, mostly on ferns and calatheas.
Soil that is pulling away from the pot’s edges means it is very dry.
If dry soil is added, the lower leaves will turn yellow.

It means you’re giving your plants too much water.

If the soil is still wet, the leaves will turn yellow.
Root rot is when the roots are soft or black.
A bad or musty smell is coming from the ground.
There are fungus gnats or mold in the ground.

Bottom Watering Check (for plants that get too much water)

Some plants, like African violets and snake plants, do better when they are watered from the bottom up instead of the top down. If you want to know if it’s necessary, do this:

Put the pot of your plant in a shallow tray of water and let the holes in the bottom soak up the water.
Check the plant again in 10 to 15 minutes. If the soil feels damp on top, it has taken in enough water.
Add a little more water and do it again if the surface feels dry.

Best for African violets, plants that don’t like being wet, and succulents in terracotta pots.

Main Points:

Use multiple methods (finger test, weight test, observation) to determine when to water.
Different plants show different signs of water needs—learn to recognize them.
Instead of watering at set times, change your schedule based on the weather.

Now that you know when to water, let’s talk about how often to water different kinds of plants based on their needs.

How Often Should You Water Different Family Plants Indoor?

When I first started growing succulents, I thought they needed to be watered every day like other houseplants. I felt bad if the soil was dry, so every couple of days I would check it and water them “just in case.” I was shocked when my Echeveria and aloe vera started to wilt and drop leaves like a tree in the fall. I forgot about a small Haworthia plant on my windowsill for almost a month, thinking it would be dead when I found it. To my surprise, it looked fine.

Not sure, When I did some research, I learned that succulents can survive long periods of drought because their thick leaves, stems, and roots store water.

Succulents have evolved specialized water-storage tissues (parenchyma cells) that allow them to withstand extreme drought. A 2015 study in the Journal of Arid Environments found that certain Crassulaceae species can lose up to 80% of their stored water and still survive for weeks without visible damage (Nobel, 2015).

Tropical plants need consistent moisture, but succulents do better when they aren’t cared for. In fact, too much water is the thing that kills them the most.

The way I water my plants has changed since this happened. I stopped blindly following a schedule and started learning what each plant needed, making changes based on the weather. So you don’t make the same mistakes I did, let’s talk about how to water different kinds of plants in the best way.

General Rules for Watering Different Types of Plants

Here is a quick-reference table that will help you figure out how much water different indoor plants usually need:

Plant Type	Watering Frequency	Additional Notes
Succulents & Cacti	Every 2–3 weeks	Allow soil to dry completely. Water less in winter.
Tropical Plants (Pothos, Monsteras, Philodendrons, Peace Lilies, etc.)	Every 7–10 days	Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy. Reduce in winter.
Ferns (Boston Fern, Maidenhair Fern, etc.)	Every 3–5 days	Prefer high humidity and frequent watering.
Calatheas & Marantas	Every 5–7 days	Sensitive to overwatering and tap water chemicals.
Orchids	Every 7–10 days	Water when roots turn silvery; avoid standing water.
Snake Plants & ZZ Plants	Every 2–4 weeks	Drought-tolerant; more prone to overwatering than underwatering.
Flowering Houseplants (African Violets, Anthuriums, etc.)	Every 5–7 days	Keep evenly moist for consistent blooms.
Herbs (Basil, Mint, Rosemary, etc.)	Every 2–5 days	Need frequent watering, especially in dry conditions.

This table gives you a general idea of how often to do it, but the exact amount should be changed depending on the weather, the time of year, and the type of soil you have.

You can find more info about plant types in my guide!

Seasonal Changes to Watering

All year, plants don’t need the same amount of water. Their needs change with the seasons, the amount of light, and the time of year when they sleep.

Spring and Summer (Time of Active Growth)
- Because their metabolisms are working harder, plants need more water.
- Give plants that grow quickly, like ferns and herbs, more water more often.
- Regularly check the level of moisture in the soil to keep it from drying out.
Fall and winter (the dormant season)
- A lot of plants go into a resting phase where they need less watering.
- Because it takes longer for soil to dry when it’s cooler, water less to keep roots from rotting.
- During the winter, you may only need to water your succulents and cacti once a month.
Conditions That Are Wet or Dry
- If you live in a humid area, the soil will hold on to water longer, so you will need to water less often.
- Plants dry out faster indoors, especially when the heat is on in the winter, so they need to be watered more often.

Boost Humidity Levels for Healthier Houseplants

Special Things to Think About for Certain Types of Plants

To stay healthy, some plants need to be watered in certain ways.

🌵 Succulents & Cacti (Low Water Needs)

Rule of Thumb: Water only when the soil is completely dry.
How to Water: Give a deep soak, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
Common Mistake: Overwatering causes root rot—if in doubt, wait a few more days before watering.

🌿 Tropical Plants (Consistently Moist Soil)

Rule of Thumb: Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
How to Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry.
Common Mistake: Allowing soil to dry out completely—this can cause leaf curling, browning, or crisp edges.

🌸 Flowering Plants (Consistent Moisture for Blooms)

Rule of Thumb: Most flowering houseplants like African Violets and Anthuriums prefer even moisture.
How to Water: Keep the soil consistently damp, but never soggy.
Common Mistake: Drying out between waterings—this can cause flowers to drop prematurely.

🍃 Ferns (High Humidity & Frequent Watering)

Rule of Thumb: Water every 3–5 days to keep the soil evenly moist.
How to Water: Mist regularly and keep the soil from drying out completely.
Common Mistake: Placing ferns in dry air—low humidity leads to brown, crispy fronds.

🪴 Snake Plants & ZZ Plants (Extremely Drought-Tolerant)

Rule of Thumb: Water sparingly—these plants store water in their rhizomes.
How to Water: Only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2–4 weeks.
Common Mistake: Overwatering is their biggest killer—avoid watering “just in case.”

And by the way, just remember that when you water your plants, it’s good to add a fertilizer. You may use a natural one and if you don’t know which one then this article will surely help Top 5 Organic Fertilizers to Supercharge Your Indoor Plant Growth

How Much Water to Use Based on the Type of Pot and Soil

How often you water depends a lot on the type of pot and soil mix you use.

Pots made of terracotta lose water quickly, so water them more often.
Plastic and ceramic pots keep water in, so you need to water them less often.
Soil that drains quickly (succulents and cacti mix) dries out quickly, so water it more often.
Soil that is based on peat or that retains water (for ferns and calatheas) needs less watering because it stays wet longer.

Main Points

Different plants need different amounts of water. For example, snake plants and succulents only need to be watered once in a while, while ferns and tropical plants need to be watered regularly.
Change how often you water based on the seasons—water more in the spring and summer and less in the fall and winter.
Pay attention to pot material and soil type—terracotta pots and fast-draining soil dry out faster than plastic pots and moisture-retentive mixes.
Don’t stick to strict schedules. Instead, watch your plants and water them when the soil feels dry, not when a certain time comes up.

Now that you know how often to water different kinds of plants, let’s talk about the best ways to water your plants so they get enough water without getting too much.

How to Water Indoor Plants the Right Way

It’s not enough to just water often; you also need to be careful about how you do it. Even if you know exactly when to water your plants, if you don’t do it right, you could end up overwatering them, causing root rot, or not giving them enough water.

Soil structure significantly impacts moisture retention. Clay-based potting mixes hold excess water, increasing root rot risk due to anaerobic conditions. According to research from the Royal Horticultural Society (2021), well-draining soil with 30-50% inorganic matter (perlite, pumice, sand) improves aeration and prevents overwatering-related diseases.

I’ve learned that the way you do something is just as important as the time you do it. For example, I almost drowned a snake plant by giving it too much water to “help” it.

We’ll talk about the best ways to water your indoor plants, how to avoid making common mistakes, and how to make sure that the plants soak up water evenly so that they are healthier and happier. And in case you made some mistakes, remember: you can always try to rescue your dying houseplant!

Top vs. Bottom Watering: Different Ways to Water

You can water houseplants in two main ways: from the top or the bottom. Each method has its own pros and cons, and the best way to use it depends on what the plant needs.

Watering from the top (Old Fashioned Method)

Most of the time, people water plants by pouring water right on top of the soil.

How to get it right:

Slowly pour water on the ground until you see extra water draining out of the bottom.
Make sure that the water covers the whole surface of the soil.
Let the plant’s extra water drain away completely before putting it back.

How to use it:

This method is good for most plants, like flowering plants, ferns, and tropical plants.
The best for soil that drains well and doesn’t hold too much water.

Mistake often made:

A lot of people water their plants too little, so the top layer only gets wet and the roots below stay dry.
If you water too quickly, the water may drain away before it can be absorbed by the soil. This is called runoff.

Bottom watering stops roots from rotting and too much watering.

Bottom watering lets the plant soak up water from below through its drainage holes instead of watering it from above.

How to get it right:

Put the plant’s pot in a shallow bowl or tray that is full of water.
Wait 10 to 20 minutes until the soil feels damp on top of the plant.
Take the pot off the stove and let the extra water drain off before putting it back on.

How to use it:

Great for African violets, snake plants, and succulents that don’t like to get too wet.
Helps plants that grow in soil that is hard or doesn’t like water to soak up water evenly.

Mistake often made:

If you leave the pot in water for too long, the soil can get too wet, which can cause root rot.
If you water plants from above, like African violets, their leaves will get spots if they get too wet. Don’t use this method on those plants.

How much water do you need?

People who own plants often wonder, “How much water is enough?” It varies by plant type, but as a general rule:

For small plants, water until 10–20% of the water drains away.
For medium-sized plants, water until you see that the bottom of the pot drains extra water, which is usually 1/4 to 1/3 of the pot’s volume.
For big plants, make sure to water them well so that the water gets to the roots.

Tip: For accuracy, use a watering can with a narrow spout so you don’t splash water on leaves that don’t need it.

Getting the Right Water: Rainwater, Tap Water, or Filtered Water?

There is a difference between the types of water you use for plants, believe it or not.

Tap water is fine for most plants, but watch out for chemicals.

Tap water in many places has chlorine, fluoride, and salts in it that can hurt plants that are easily hurt, like peace lilies, calatheas, and spider plants.
Let tap water sit for 24 hours to get rid of any chemicals if you have to use it.

Filtered water is best for plants that are easily hurt.

Gets rid of harmful chemicals while keeping minerals that are good for you.
The best choice for plants that are picky and don’t like tap water.

Rainwater is the most natural and nutrient-dense option.

Minerals found in nature that help plants grow.
Free of dangerous chemicals, but should be collected safely (avoid roof runoff that is contaminated).

Tip: If the tips of your leaves are turning brown, it means that the water in your taps has too much fluoride or chlorine. Switching to filtered or rainwater can help.

Scheduled watering vs. watering based on observations

A lot of people who own plants think that watering their plants at the same time every “X days” will keep them happy. Plants don’t really follow calendars; instead, they react to the things around them.

Why observing is better than making plans

The weather, humidity, and plant growth cycles all affect how wet the soil is.
If you stick to a strict schedule, you might water too much in the winter or not enough in the summer.
Using the finger test or a moisture meter can help you figure out what you really need.

From my own experience, I once made sure that all of my plants got water every week. In the summer, this worked fine, but in the winter, my monstera got yellow leaves from too much water, and my fern dried out way too quickly. I learned that plants can tell you when they need water—you just have to pay attention.

Mistakes People Make When Watering and How to Fix Them

It’s very common for plant owners to mess up when they water their plants, even if they’ve done it before. I’ve learned the hard way, like when I accidentally let a fern turn into crispy brown confetti and drowned a snake plant in “love,” which means too much water. The good news? If you catch most watering mistakes early, you can fix them. We’ll talk about the most common mistakes people make when they water their plants, how to spot them, and most importantly, how to save your plant before it’s too late.

Plant Death #1: Too much water

Signs of Too Much Watering

Especially the lower leaves are turning yellow and becoming limp.
Black or mushy roots are a sign of root rot.
The ground smells sour and musty.
Fungus gnats flying around the plant (they like wet soil).
There is mold or algae on the top of the soil.

What Makes It Too Wet?

Too much watering before the ground dries out.
Using a pot that doesn’t have drainage holes, which keeps water in.
Plants being grown in soil that is too dense and doesn’t drain well.

How to Fix Plants That Got Too Much Water

Stop watering right away. Do not add more water until the soil is completely dry.
Look at the roots. Take the plant out of its pot. If the roots are black and mushy, use clean scissors to cut off the damaged parts.
Put in new soil that drains well when you repot. If the plant has root rot, move it to a new pot with a lighter mix, like perlite and potting soil.
Make the drainage better. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, get a new one with holes or put gravel at the bottom to keep the soil from getting too wet.

From my own experience, I once gave a pothos too much water because I thought it needed extra care. I got scared when it started dropping yellow leaves one by one. It came back within a few weeks after I repotted it in a mix that drains better and changed how often I watered it.

Underwatering: When Your Plant is Begging for Help

Signs of Being Underwater

There are dry, crispy, and broken leaves.
The soil pulls away from the edges of the pot, which means it is very dry.
leaves that are wilting or drooping and wake up right away after being watered.
Edges or tips that are brown, mostly on tropical plants like ferns and calatheas.

What Makes Underwatering Happen?

Not watering often enough or waiting too long.
Putting down too much soil that drains quickly, like cactus mix for a plant that likes water.
Too dry pots, especially terracotta ones when it’s hot outside.

How to Bring an Underwater Plant Back to Life

Water all over and deeply. Soak the plant well until the water runs out of the bottom.
Bottom-water the soil if it is hydrophobic, which means it doesn’t like water. For 15 to 20 minutes, put the pot in a tray of water and let it soak up the water from below.
If you need to, mist or raise the humidity. Some plants, like ferns, get better faster when the humidity goes up and they get enough water.
Change how often you water. Set alarms or put plants in places where you can see them more often if you forget to water them.

From my own experience, I forgot all about a maidenhair fern I had left next to a heating vent one winter. It looked like dried spaghetti when I finally looked at it. I tried to rehydrate it, but it was too late. I learned that some plants don’t like being ignored.

Watering that isn’t consistent: the silent stressor

Signs of Not Watering Regularly

Sometimes the leaves turn yellow, curl, or fall off.
When new growth shows up, it quickly wilts or dies back.
The roots are stressed because the soil goes from being completely dry to being soaked with water.

What Makes Watering Less Regular?

Forgetting to water and then giving it too much water to make up for it.
Weather changes (for example, heat in the winter dries out the soil more quickly).
Using the wrong soil that doesn’t hold water evenly.

How to Stop Watering Not Regularly

Make it a habit to check the soil’s moisture. Instead of sticking to a set schedule, feel the soil before you water.
Take care of plants by giving them what they need. If a plant dries out too quickly, take it out of the sun or direct heat.
Use methods that water themselves. For plants that tend to dry out, self-watering pots or bottom watering can help keep the soil moist.

From my own experience, I would water my calathea all over the place—sometimes too much, sometimes not enough. I didn’t understand why the edges started to turn brown and crispy. It finally stopped whining after I started regularly checking the moisture level and switched from tap water to filtered water.

It’s Not the Right Time of Day to Water

A lot of people don’t know that when they water their houseplants, the timing is important.

The best time to water plants

Early in the morning or early in the afternoon: This gives the soil time to fully absorb the water before nightfall, which lowers the risk of fungal infections.

Watering in the morning is ideal because plants experience higher transpiration rates during daylight, which enhances nutrient uptake and prevents pathogen growth. According to a 2017 study by Texas A&M University, early watering reduces the likelihood of fungal infections, which thrive in prolonged moisture conditions (Hall & Campbell, 2017).

The worst time to water plants

Late at night or in the late evening: Soil that is wet and cooler temperatures help fungi grow and root rot happen.

If you water your plant by accident in the evening, try to make the air flow better around it so the soil dries faster.

Using the Wrong Way to Water

Not Enough Water

If you pour water on the ground too quickly, it will run off before it can soak in.
Answer: Water the soil slowly and evenly so it can soak up the water.

Giving it only surface water

Many people only water the top inch of soil, leaving the roots below dry.
To make sure the roots get enough water, water the plant well until the extra water drains out of the pot.

Putting water on the leaves

African violets and other plants are hurt when water sits on their leaves.
To fix it, water the plant from below instead of above.

Main Points

It’s more dangerous to water too much than not enough, so always check the soil’s moisture level before you water it.
If you’re not sure what to do, wait a day. Plants that aren’t getting enough water can recover faster than ones that are.
Stressed plants happen when you don’t water them regularly; check the soil often instead of sticking to a strict schedule.
When you water plants in the morning, they have time to soak up the water before it gets dark.
For each plant, use the right method—some like to be watered from the bottom up, while others need deep, slow watering.

If you don’t do these common mistakes when you water your plants, they will be healthier, happier, and grow faster. Now that we’ve talked about what NOT to do, let’s wrap up with a quick summary and some useful tips that will help you get better at watering indoor plants!

Quick-Reference Summary: How to Water Indoor Plants Correctly

General Watering Guidelines

Most houseplants need watering every 7–10 days, but frequency varies by species.
Always check soil moisture before watering instead of following a strict schedule.
Water in the morning to prevent fungal growth and allow plants to absorb moisture effectively.

How to Check If Your Plant Needs Water

✔️ Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil—if it’s dry, water it.
✔️ Lift the pot—dry soil feels lighter than moist soil.
✔️ Use a moisture meter—1–3 means dry, 8–10 means too wet.
✔️ Observe leaf signs—wilting, curling, or yellowing may indicate dehydration.

How Often to Water Different Plant Types

Plant Type	Watering Frequency	Signs It Needs Water	Common Mistakes
Succulents & Cacti	Every 2–3 weeks	Wrinkled, soft leaves	Overwatering causes root rot
Tropical Plants (Monsteras, Philodendrons, Pothos, etc.)	Every 7–10 days	Wilting, drooping, dry topsoil	Inconsistent watering leads to stress
Ferns & Calatheas	Every 3–5 days	Crispy leaf edges, dry topsoil	Letting soil dry out completely
Snake Plants & ZZ Plants	Every 2–4 weeks	Leaves wrinkle or fold slightly	Watering “just in case” causes rot
Orchids	Every 7–10 days	Silvery-gray roots	Letting roots sit in water
Flowering Houseplants (African Violets, Anthuriums, etc.)	Every 5–7 days	Slight drooping or dull leaves	Overwatering damages blooms

Common Watering Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overwatering—root rot is the #1 cause of plant death.
❌ Using pots without drainage—traps excess water and suffocates roots.
❌ Sticking to a fixed schedule—plants need adjustments based on season and environment.
❌ Watering late at night—promotes mold and fungal growth.

Best Watering Techniques

Top watering: Best for most plants, but pour slowly and evenly.
Bottom watering: Ideal for plants prone to overwatering (e.g., succulents, African violets).
Self-watering pots: Useful for frequent travelers or forgetful plant owners.

Seasonal Adjustments

✔️ Spring & Summer: Plants grow actively and require more frequent watering.
✔️ Fall & Winter: Many plants enter dormancy—reduce watering by 30–50%.

Final Watering Rule: Listen to Your Plants!

If leaves curl or droop, check for underwatering.
If leaves turn yellow while the soil is wet, you may be overwatering.
If soil stays wet for over a week, consider repotting with better-draining soil.

Mastering the Art of Watering: Last Words and Useful Advice

You should now know that there is no one-size-fits-all schedule for watering indoor plants. Instead, you should watch your plant, make changes as needed, and then give it what it needs. I’ve lost a few plants over the years (RIP to the peace lily I drowned in love), but learning how to water them right has turned them from struggling survivors to happy green friends.

This last section will give you useful, simple tips on how to create a water-smart routine that will make sure your plants get the water they need without the risks of too much or too little watering.

Set up an easy way to water your plants (without making it too hard).

Instead of watering at set times, make a routine that is flexible but consistent and based on what your plants actually need.

Check the soil’s moisture often.
- To find out how dry something is, use the finger test or a moisture meter.
- See if the leaves are wilting, turning yellow, or getting crispy.
Water deeply but in the right way
- For most plants, water until the bottom drains of extra water.
- Bottom watering is a good way to keep plants that are sensitive to water from getting too much.
Change based on the weather and season
- In the spring and summer, when plants are growing quickly, give them more water.
- As the seasons change, water less in the fall and winter.

Tip: If you forget to water your plants often, set an alarm for once a week to check on them and water only if they need it.

Sorting plants by how much water they need

Putting plants together that need the same amount of water is one of the easiest ways to make watering easier to understand.

Plants that can handle drought (water every two to four weeks)
- Desert plants, cacti, snake plants, and ZZ plants
- Do well in dry soil and little watering
- Perfect for plant parents who forget to take care of their plants
Not too much water (every 7–10 days) for plants
- Monsteras, philodendrons, pothos, and rubber plants
- Like steady moisture but can handle some drying
- Great for normal plant care jobs
Plants That Need Water (Water every 3–7 days)
- Plants like ferns, calatheas, peace lilies, and African violets
- Like soil that is evenly moist and high humidity.
- Need to be checked often to keep from drying out

Many houseplants, particularly sensitive foliage species like calatheas, spider plants, and dracaenas, exhibit leaf-tip burn due to fluoride accumulation in tap water. A study from the University of California found that prolonged exposure to fluoridated water reduces chlorophyll production, weakening plant health (Valenzuela et al., 2018).

Tip: If you have different kinds of plants, put them in groups based on how much water they need in different areas. That way, you won’t overwater succulents while you’re trying to keep ferns happy.

Getting the Right Tools to Make Watering Easier

Getting a few simple tools can help you water more accurately and quickly.

A watering can with a long spout helps get water to the roots without splashing on the leaves.
Moisture Meter: This tool makes it easy to know when to water plants, especially those that are in deep pots.
Self-Watering Pots: These are great for ferns and calatheas that dry out quickly.
Spray Bottle: This is useful for plants that like humidity and need to be misted every so often.
Bottom Watering Tray: This is great for African violets, orchids, and other plants that like to soak from below.

If you travel a lot, you might want to get self-watering globes or set up a wicking system to keep your plants alive while you’re away.

Making a place that is easy to water

How often you need to water your plant depends on where it is. By making small changes, you can help your plants stay moist without having to be watched all the time.

For tropical plants, raise the humidity. You can do this with a humidity tray, a room humidifier, or by putting plants together.
Keep plants that need water away from direct heat sources, like heaters and air vents. Heaters and vents dry out soil faster.
Put mulch or moss on top of the soil. This will help plants like ferns and calatheas keep their moisture for longer.
Rotating plants every so often makes sure they get the same amount of light and airflow, which keeps the soil from drying out unevenly.

Tip: If your home is very dry, put pebble trays filled with water under your plants to slowly make the air more humid.

How to Water: The “Golden Rule” from Your Plants

After all, your plants will tell you what they need. You just need to listen.

Wilting? Could be not getting enough water or too much (check the soil!).
Leaves turning yellow? Could be a sign of too much water, bad drainage, or a change in the season.
Are the edges brown and crispy? Low humidity or inconsistent watering are likely to blame.

Last Thought: Instead of worrying about when to water your plants, make it a habit to check on them often. The more you watch them, the better you’ll understand how to water them properly.

Finally, learn how to water like a pro.

Learning how to water plants is a skill that takes some time, but once you get the hang of it, it’s easy.
There is no “perfect schedule.” You should water your plant based on its environment, the soil, and the time of year, not just a set number of days.
Depending on the type of plant, use the right way to water—from the top, the bottom, or by letting it do it itself.
Don’t make these common mistakes: overwatering is worse than underwatering, and giving plants inconsistent amounts of water can stress them out.
Make a place that helps plants stay hydrated. How often you need to water depends on the soil, humidity, airflow, and pot you choose.

You now have all the information, skills, and useful tips you need to put what you’ve learned into practice and see your indoor plants grow naturally. Have fun watering!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Watering Indoor Plants

How can I water my plants while on vacation?

If you’ll be away for more than a week, there are several ways to keep your plants hydrated:

Self-watering pots: These have built-in reservoirs that slowly release water.
Watering globes: Inserted into the soil, they gradually provide moisture.
DIY water wick system: Place one end of a cotton string in a cup of water and bury the other end in the soil.
Humidity trays: Grouping plants together on a tray filled with pebbles and water helps slow evaporation.
Ask a friend or neighbor: Provide clear instructions on how often to check soil moisture.

Can I use tap water, rainwater, or filtered water for my plants?

It depends on the plant species and water quality. Some houseplants are sensitive to tap water due to:

Chlorine: Can cause leaf spotting in delicate plants. Let tap water sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate.
Fluoride: Can lead to leaf tip burn in plants like calatheas, spider plants, and dracaenas. Use filtered or distilled water if needed.
Hard water: Excess minerals can build up in the soil, affecting root absorption.

Best water choices:

Rainwater: Natural and nutrient-rich, but should be collected in a clean container.
Filtered water: Removes chemicals while retaining essential minerals.
Distilled water: Ideal for very sensitive plants but lacks natural nutrients.

Should I mist my plants to increase humidity?

Misting can temporarily raise humidity, but it’s not an effective long-term solution. Instead, consider:

Humidity trays: Place a shallow tray of water with pebbles beneath the plant.
Room humidifier: Provides consistent moisture for humidity-loving plants like ferns and calatheas.
Grouping plants together: Creates a micro-humid environment by increasing transpiration.

Misting can be beneficial for tropical plants, but avoid misting plants with fuzzy leaves (e.g., African violets), as they are prone to fungal infections.

How can I create a customized watering schedule for my plants?

Instead of following a strict watering schedule, adjust based on:

Plant type: Succulents need far less frequent watering than ferns or tropical plants.
Season: Plants require more water in spring and summer due to active growth and higher temperatures.
Pot and soil type: Terracotta pots and fast-draining soil dry out faster than plastic pots or moisture-retentive mixes.
Environmental conditions: Homes with low humidity or strong air circulation will cause soil to dry out faster.

Check soil moisture regularly using the finger test or a moisture meter and adjust watering as needed rather than relying on fixed intervals.

How do I save a plant that already has root rot?

If a plant has been overwatered and is showing signs of root rot (yellowing leaves, mushy roots, foul-smelling soil), take these steps:

Remove the plant from the pot and gently shake off excess soil.
Trim affected roots using sterilized scissors, cutting away any black, mushy, or slimy roots.
Let the plant air dry for a few hours before repotting.
Use fresh, well-draining soil with added perlite, sand, or orchid bark to improve aeration.
Switch to a pot with proper drainage and avoid watering immediately—let the plant recover for a few days.

Which plants benefit most from bottom watering?

Bottom watering is ideal for plants that:

Are sensitive to overwatering, such as succulents, snake plants, and African violets.
Have dense foliage that blocks water penetration, like calatheas and prayer plants.
Struggle with hydrophobic soil (soil that repels water from the top), requiring slow absorption from below.

To bottom water, place the pot in a shallow tray of water and let it absorb moisture for 15-20 minutes before removing it.

Can I water my plants with coffee, tea, or rice water?

Some organic liquids can be beneficial, but they must be used correctly:

Coffee grounds: Can make soil too acidic, which isn’t ideal for most houseplants. Use only in acid-loving plants like gardenias and ferns.
Tea: Mildly acidic and contains nutrients, but only use diluted, unsweetened tea to avoid attracting pests.
Rice water: Contains starch and trace minerals that can boost microbial activity in the soil. Let it sit for 24 hours before use to prevent fermentation.

Never use liquids that contain sugar, dairy, or artificial flavors, as they can lead to mold and bacterial growth.

References & Further Reading:

Valenzuela, A., et al. (2018). Fluoride Toxicity in Indoor Foliage Plants: Leaf Damage and Chlorophyll Reduction. University of California Botanical Research.

Hoagland, D. R., & Arnon, D. I. (2018). The Water-Culture method for growing plants without soil. https://www.nutricaodeplantas.agr.br/site/downloads/hoagland_arnon.pdf

Hsiao, T. C. (1973). Plant responses to water stress. Annual Review of Plant Physiology, 24(1), 519–570. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.pp.24.060173.002511

Chalker-Scott, L. (2020). The Science Behind Overwatering: Why Houseplants Die from Too Much Love. Washington State University Extension.

Hall, C., & Campbell, J. (2017). The Impact of Watering Time on Houseplant Health. Texas A&M University Agricultural Sciences.

Nobel, P. S. (2015). Crassulacean Acid Metabolism and Water Loss in Succulents. Journal of Arid Environments, 117, 1-9.

Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Optimizing Soil Drainage for Healthy Roots: The Role of Porous Aggregates. RHS Science & Research Division.

Smith, R., & Delgado, M. (2020). How Container Size Affects Water Retention in Houseplants. Horticultural Science Journal, 45(3), 118-126.