How Often to Water Potted Plants

All plants need water to grow. The amount of water will vary from variety to variety, and will also depend on whether the plants are potted or planted in a garden. Potted plants will dry out more quickly, as these plants are limited in the amount of water they can store and draw out of the soil. Potted plants must be maintained with much more care than plants in the garden.

Considerations

The potted plant must rely upon the grower for all of its nutrients. The minerals can be added with the water or supplied separately.

Misconceptions

Yellow leaves do not mean the plant is not getting enough water. There are times when a plant will turn yellow when there is too much water on the roots.

Warning

Water potted plants when the soil is dry to the touch. The rule of thumb is to stick the index finger into the plant soil. If the soil is dry up to the first knuckle, then the plant needs water.

Identification

Certain potted plants are succulents. These plants, like the aloe vera or cactus, only need to be watered about once every two weeks. These waterings should be done sparingly. Too much water can cause the succulents to rot in their pots.

Types

You can buy so-called "self-watering" pots, which are perfect if you're going on an extended vacation. In these pots, plants can draw in as much moisture as needed for optimum growing conditions. These pots are also great if you tend to forget to check the water level of your plants.

Resources

• Guidelines for Watering Plants
• Container Gardening