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Step 1
Make sure you have a tray beneath your houseplant to avoid mess and staining when the water runs through the bottom.
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Step 2
Water slowly and allow it to saturate the soil (not run down the inside of the pot) until it comes out the bottom. If the soil is so dry that the water doesn't penetrate easily, soak the whole pot in a basin of water for about 30 minutes and don't allow it to dry out so much between waterings.
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Step 3
Check the top 1" to 2" of soil every few days. If it is dry, it's time to water.
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Step 4
A decorative glass watering bulb from Gardener's SupplyRemembering to check seems to be one of the hardest things to do, so you might want to invest in one of several handy tools to help.
*A water meter
*A self-watering pot
*A watering bulb -
Step 5
Or maybe you might make a your own watering contraption with an inverted plastic bottle. Just fill the bottle with water and turn it upside down with the opening buried snugly in the soil. This way the water can seep into the soil slowly keeping it moist for longer.
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Step 6
Soak or thoroughly water your plant every 3 - 6 months to wash away collected mineral salts. If you notice a white crusty growth on the surface or edges of the soil, your are waiting too long and minerals are beginning to build up. You will probably want to do this outdoors so the water can wash freely out of the pot.
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Step 7
With proper watering and good light, your indoor plants should thrive!
Comments
sunshine11219 said
on 10/14/2008 I always kill my plants great tips
Ladybugblue said
on 10/14/2008 Most people have no idea what plants need! Thanks for the good article!
WesleyJ said
on 10/12/2008 Very in-depth article. I'll be honest in that i just fill a pot around and allow the cohesiveness of the water to enter the soil...but your methods are first-class. 5 stars!