Most houseplants die not from drought but from poor watering: too often, with water that is too cold or too hard, or without drainage. Here is what water to use, how to tell when a plant needs watering, and what to do if you go away for a week, two weeks or a month. More plants with names and tips in our houseplant catalogue.
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For plants that dislike water on their leaves or crown (African violets, orchids), water from below: stand the pot in water for 15–30 minutes.
| Plant | How to water | How often (summer) |
|---|---|---|
| Orchid | Soak the pot for 15–20 min once the roots turn silvery; the same while in bloom, keeping water out of the crown | Every 7–10 days |
| ZZ plant | Only when the soil is completely dry; the rhizomes store water | Every 2–3 weeks, less in winter |
| African violet, cyclamen | From below with lukewarm water, never onto leaves or the tuber | When the top of the soil is dry |
| Ficus, dracaena | From above once the top 2–3 cm are dry | Every 7–10 days |
| Cactus, aloe, jade plant | Thoroughly, but only when the soil is dry | Every 2–3 weeks; monthly or less in winter |
| Peace lily, anthurium | Keep slightly moist; a peace lily droops to ask for water | 1–2 times a week |
| Christmas cactus, kalanchoe | Moderately; do not let it dry out while in bud | When the top of the soil is dry |
Frequencies are approximate: plants near radiators or in hot weather need water more often, and less in cool, dim conditions. Always check the soil.
The most reliable options are a drip system on a timer or someone who can call in once a week. Leave them simple instructions: which plants, how much water and how often.
Test any system a week before you leave to check it does not waterlog the soil and holds enough water. Cacti and succulents usually do not need one.
Test your chosen method a week before you leave: see how much water it uses per day and whether the soil gets waterlogged. That way there are no surprises when you return.
Yes, once cooled to room temperature: boiling reduces temporary water hardness.
Most tropical plants about a week, cacti and succulents 2–3 weeks or more, ferns and calatheas only a few days.
Better not: bathrooms are usually dark, and pots standing in water may rot. A wet towel or clay pebbles in a bright spot is safer.
Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
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