The Best Way to Water a Plant
You can master the best way to water a plant as long as you review a few basics. A houseplant brightens your home and brings a touch of nature to your office. The down side is that without careful nurturing your plant can die. Many a potted plants has suffered from too much water or not enough water. Over-watering is the major cause of death in the houseplant world. It’s very important to learn the proper way to water your plant and the amount needed to guarantee its success.
Amount of Water
The amount of water needed deeps on the size of the plant, location and the species. Also the make up of the soil makes a different. Soil containing mulch and vermiculite store moisture. Clay soil dries and becomes hard. Soils blended with sand allow for deeper absorbance of water.
Leafy plants require more water than succulent plants, such as cacti. Succulents store water and need less watering. Plants in direct sunlight dry out quicker and the soil need checking for moisture every few days.
Houseplants need water and oxygen to live. If the roots are saturated with water, they cannot take in oxygen. The roots rot and the plant die.
Checking for Water Needs
The easiest way to check if your houseplant need watering is to thrust your finger about an inch down in the dirt, if it’s dry, add water. The water should be at room temperature. Water continually until water drains out of the base of the flowerpot and then get rid of any standing water in the tray or saucer.
Watering Spikes
Watering spikes keep a constant flow of moisture. Made of porous terra cotta or glass globes, you add water, stick them into the soil and the plants receives the water it needs. Self-watering flowerpots are also a good choice.
Commercial moisture meters are available to monitor the plants. They are inexpensive and available at local garden supply store. They come in several models. Some are stuck in the soil and give the moisture levels. Others you place in the plant on a permanent basis and they beep when the soil becomes dry.
