Watering House Plant

Watering House Plant

How do I know how often to water my house plant?


I have a large floor house plant that was given to us at my husband's grandmother's funeral a few months back. It's beautiful and I love it. However, I accidently gave it root rot (I guess, that's what people on here described it as....) so I replanted it with new soil about 6 weeks ago. It seems to be doing OK, although some of the leaves are turning yellow. How the heck do I know how much and how often I need to water this plant?

The yellowing leaves may be from the transplant, but it could be from over watering too.
You shouldn't water your plant more than once a week, but how much depends on what kind of plant you have. My larger plants I take to the sink and water, some of my floor plants have trays under to catch the water, but never let a plant sit in water. If you water a plant and it doesn't absorb the water in about 30 minutes pour out the excess. It is always better to let a plant dry out than to over water.
Here is more information about water plants.
Good luck

Over watering is one of the greatest killers of house plants. The most common questions home gardeners ask is, "How often should I water my houseplants?" There is no absolute answer to this question. It is impossible to set a time schedule for watering plants. The frequency of watering depends on many factors such as type and size of plant, temperature and humidity within the home, weather conditions and season of the year.

Don’t automatically water all your houseplants on a schedule. Check to see if the soil about 1" below the surface is dry, before you water. When you do water, water thoroughly. Water until you see the water coming out the bottom drainage holes. This procedure will help brown thumbs who underwater as well as those who water too frequently.

Don't let your plants sit in water either. If you increase the humidity around your houseplants by placing them on a tray of pebbles sitting in water, make sure the water level is below the bottom of the pot.

If will also help if you use a light potting soil instead of garden soil, which tends to be heavy and doesn't allow water to drain through.

How Often Shall I Water Or Feed My House Plants

"How often shall I water or feed my house plant?" is the question most often asked by beginning indoor gardeners. The correct answer, "That depends..." is not so satisfying as a rule-of-thumb reply like "once a week" might be, but it's the only accurate advice that can be given for house plants.

For example, your home in winter may be almost as arid as a desert. If so, your plants will need more water than during warm, humid summer weather. Likewise, plants in small pots probably will need watering more often than those in large pots, the smaller pot dries out faster. But, while a plant in bloom needs more water than it does at other times, in general, variations in water needs from plant to plant aren't great. Except for cactus and succulents, most plants grow best in soil that is constantly moist  _not wet.

A good rule: water whenever the topsoil feels dry, whether daily or weekly. Also, water thoroughly, so to supply enough water to moisten the soil all the way to the bottom.

If you water from the top, be sure to have broken potsherds, pebbles, or other loose material at the bottom of the pot for good drainage. This is not necessary for bottom watering. Instead, insert a wick (preferably one of fiber glass) to absorb water from a dish below, keeping soil moist.

Whether you water from top or bottom, it's good practice to give plants an occasional 'dunking'.  Place the pot in a pail, or in your kitchen sink filled so that the pot will be half submerged.  When the surface of the soil is moist, set the plant aside and allow the surplus water to drain away. Then return the plant to its usual location. (In the process, it's a good idea to syringe the foliage and remove dust at the same time.)

However, don't leave the pot standing in water more than an hour. Too much water over a long period prevents oxygen from get ting to the roots,  roots must have oxygen.

For most plants (succulents and cactus are exceptions) it's almost impossible to over- water if you've provided adequate drainage.

A common mistake made by amateur indoor gardeners is overfertilizing.  A little plant food goes a long way,  too much can burn the roots and actually kill a plant. This is especially important to watch, for the various brands of fertilizers on the market differ in strength. So it pays to follow package directions exactly.

How much food you give your plants is also influenced by the seasons of the year.  While older plants benefit from a light feeding every few weeks, during winter it is best to stop feeding them except those that bloom during this period. Most of the foliage plants grown as house plants go into a reduced growth period during colder months, and giving them fertilizer disturbs their natural growth habits. You should also guard against fertilizing new plants obtained from your florist. They need no fertilizer for the first six weeks after you buy them _in fact, feeding these plants may be harmful to them.

Commercial fertilizers always indicate on the package the proportions of nutrients they contain. Those usually present are nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash, generally represented on packages and in the order stated by the ratio figures.

In your eagerness to help your plants along, you may overdo your feeding. It's not wise to assume that any sickly looking plant will benefit from a dose of plant food. The plant is more apt to be ailing because of too little light, too much or too little water, too dry an atmosphere, or poor quality of potting soil.

If your plant is suffering from starvation, nitrogen is most likely to be what it lacks.  Symptoms are a yellow color in new leaves, and lack of vigor in new growth.

While symptoms of injury from gas fumes, too much water and too little light are similar, when one of these is the culprit you usually find lower leaves turning yellow, while those higher up stay green.

Plant foods come in powdered, granulated, tablet, and liquid form. Experiment with all kinds, following suggestions below, to see which plant food you prefer.

When using dry food, be careful not to get it on the plant, and to water into the soil at once. Tablets may be inserted in the soil at the outer edge of pot. These are absorbed in the course of several waterings.

The main thing to remember about fertilizers is "Don't kill a plant with kindness!"

Aqua Globes AG011706 Glass Plant Watering Bulbs, 2-Pack
Aqua Globes AG011706 Glass Plant Watering Bulbs, 2-Pack
List Price: $9.99
Sale Price: $6.11
You save: $3.88 (39%)
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Description

AG011706 Features: -Aqua globes plant watering system. -Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks. -For use with houseplants, hanging plants and patio plants. -Easy to use, just fill and insert into soil. -Never worry about leaving plants unattended. -Genuine hand blown stained glass. -2 per pack.

Features

  • Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks
  • For use with houseplants, hanging plants and patio plants
  • Easy to use, just fill and insert into soil
  • Never worry about leaving plants unattended
  • Genuine Hand Blown Stained glass
Aqua Globes Plant Watering As Seen On TV Set/4
Aqua Globes Plant Watering As Seen On TV Set/4
Sale Price: $12.86
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Description

Aqua Globes are an attractive solution for automatic house-plant watering. The hand blown stained glass globes arefilled with water and inserted into the soil of houseplants dispensing water as the plant needs it. Aqua Globes are a great alternative to the daily chore of watering plants and an excellent choice for automatic watering while on vacation.HOW TO USE:1.) Fill Aqua Globe with water. 2.) Make a small hole in the soil with a pencil or stick. 3.) Insert Aqua Globe into soil. As soil becomes dry, it releases oxygen into the Aqua Globe, which in turn releases the exact amount of water your plant needs.

Features

  • Avoid overwatering of your plants.
  • No cleaning up mess from spills.
  • Hand blown stained glass are very decorative.
  • No more worry about leaving plants unattended.
Claber 8053 Oasis 4-Program/20 Plant Garden Automatic Drip Watering System
Claber 8053 Oasis 4-Program/20 Plant Garden Automatic Drip Watering System
List Price: $79.99
Sale Price: $77.13
You save: $2.86 (4%)
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Description

Claber Oasis Self - Watering System keeps plants healthy while you're away! Set it up to water your precious indoor greenery for 10, 20, 30 or even 40 days for up to 20 plants! No electrical connections needed and no water taps left on! Powered by a 9V battery (not included), this System dispenses water from the 6 1/2 gallon tank so you don't have to worry on your vacation! More: Comes with 33 feet of water distribution hose ; Includes 20 drippers and fixing stakes ; LED on / off indicator light ; Isolated tank prevents condensation ; Washable filter for clean, pure water flow ; Rubber feet won't scratch your tabletops; Shipping dimensions: 15 x 15 x 15", weighs 9 1/2 lbs.; Pick up this handy Self-Waterer today! Order Today! Claber Oasis Self-Watering System

Claber's award-winning Oasis Automatic Drip Watering System is the perfect solution for watering your plants when you're away for the holidays, on vacation, or just short on time. Ideal for indoor use, the Oasis provides a consistent, perfectly calibrated amount of water to as many as 20 plants for up to 40 days. And since it operates totally independently of faucets and electrical outlets, you will not need to worry about leaks or electrical problems while you're away. .caption {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;font-weight: bold;font-style: italic;}ul.indent {list-style: inside disc;text-indent: 20px;}img.withlink {border:1px black solid;}a.nodecoration {text-decoration: none} The award-winning Oasis system offers a practical, elegant solution for watering plants. View larger. A single, easy-to-understand control panel directs the entire system. View larger. Features include a low-battery indicator light and water-saving bi-stable solenoid valve. View larger. Award-Winning System Saves Money, Time, and WorryThe Oasis Automatic Drip Watering System received top honors at the 2007 National Hardware Show and was recognized as the Product of the Year by Hardware Retailing magazine. The system's water distribution tank avoids the problem of leaky faucets, helping to conserve water and prevent moisture damage. And because Oasis is powered by a single 9V battery that provides enough power to operate the system for up to one year, it helps you save money on electricity bills. 20 drippers deliver water to your plants when you're away. View larger. The Claber Oasis Automatic Drip Watering System is easy to install right out of the box--setup takes just minutes. And with its intuitive design that features a single set of controls, the Oasis is a snap to use. Simply place the unit on a sturdy surface that's at least 2-1/2 feet above your tallest pot, insert a 9V battery (not included), install the system's distribution hose and drippers, fill the tank with water and choose your program. It's that easy! An added bonus, an LED signals when the Oasis is in operation or when the battery is low, so you never have to worry about your plants going without the water they need. One 9V battery will power your system for an entire year. Large Tank with Electronic Timer and Four Different Watering ProgramsThe distribution tank has a capacity of 6.6 gallons and features four convenient watering programs: 10, 20, 30, and 40 days. Each program is designed to deliver a perfectly calibrated amount of water to as many as 20 plants, so you can stop worrying about over- or under-watering. And with a built-in electronic timer and water-saving bi-stable solenoid valve, this unique watering system guarantees efficient delivery of water each and every time you use it. The Oasis precisely measures water to suit your specific needs. Each program waters twice per day, and the amount of water is equally distributed to your plants. The 10-day program delivers 4.05 ounces of water per dripper per day; the 20-day program delivers 2.02 ounces of water per dripper per day; the 30-day program delivers 1.35 ounces of water per dripper per day; and the 40-day program delivers 1.01 ounces of water per dripper per day. Generally speaking, one dripper is sufficient for small and medium plants; two drippers are recommended for larger plants. Easy Cleaning and StorageCleaning the Oasis takes just minutes: simply wipe all of the parts with a damp rag and let dry. The internal water filter can also be treated with a mixture of water and distilled vinegar to eliminate any lime scale. The Oasis Self-Watering System's small profile allows for easy storage in a closet or cabinet. Preparing the unit for storage is simple: just remove the battery, drain the water from the tank and hose, clean, dry, and store. The Oasis Automatic Drip Watering System's attractive, modern styling fits well with any décor, and its soft rubber feet keep it secure on any surface and eliminate scratching. To ensure long-lasting use, the Oasis features high-quality materials and construction and is backed by a 2-year warranty. What's in the BoxDistribution system, 20 drippers, 33-foot circuit hose, and 20 fixing stakes

Features

  • 2007 Hardware Retailer Choice Award
  • As seen on TV
  • No water taps or electrical connections needed
  • 4 Irrigation Programs
  • Operates on one 9-volt battery
Aqua Bulbs 2 Plant Watering Globe House Plants
Aqua Bulbs 2 Plant Watering Globe House Plants
Sale Price: $3.97
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Description

Easy to use. Just fill and insert into soil. Waters plants as they need it, so you never have to worry about overwatering. Made of genuine hand blown glass.

Features

  • Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks
  • For use with houseplants, hanging plants and patio plants
  • Easy to use, just fill and insert into soil
  • Never worry about leaving plants unattended
  • Genuine Hand Blown Stained glass
8105 Pale-Colored Glass Watering Globe with Plant Nanny - set of 3
8105 Pale-Colored Glass Watering Globe with Plant Nanny - set of 3
List Price: $44.95
Sale Price: $37.54
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Description

The Plant Nanny is a specially-engineered ceramic stake that waters your plant easily and beneficially. Inserted into moist soil near the root base, the Nanny will release water as the soil begins to dry, so it won't under-water or over-water your plants. The lovely fluted glass globe serves as the water reservoir and adds a shimmer of beauty to the plant. The water level can easily be seen, so you know exactly when to refill the globe. Each color is packaged in a decorative gift box.

Features

  • Automatic watering stakes with glass globe reservoirs - set of 3
  • Includes green, aqua and blue globes with stakes for each
  • Gravity-feed design waters plants on demand for optimal moisture and root health
  • Adds visual interest and color to the plant. Set of 3 assorted colors
  • Great gift for plant lovers; each in a decorative box
Aqua Globes Mini- Set of 3
Aqua Globes Mini- Set of 3
Sale Price: $11.23
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Description

Aqua Globes Mini- Set of 3The work of art that waters your plants for you!New size for smaller plants. Take the guesswork and worrying out of watering!How much water should a plant get? Sometimes it's hard to tell, but not with Mini Aqua Globes watering bulbs. As soil becomes dry, it releases oxygen into the Mini Aqua Globe watering bulb, which in turn releases the exact amount of water your plant needs.Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks. Individually crafted hand blown glass.Features:For indoor and outdoor potted plants Automatically waters your houseplants for up to 2 weeks Water your plants as they need water, not as you have time Hand blown glass design adds beauty to your plants Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks Use for small plants, herb gardens and hanging plants Each Mini Aqua Globe holds 6 oz water New colors- Sapphire Blue, Emerald Green and Spring Bouquet Includes:3 x Mini Aqua Globes- one of each color

Features

  • Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks.
  • Individually crafted hand blown glass
  • New size for smaller plants
  • Take the guesswork and worrying out of watering!
Self-Watering Probes - Vacation Plant Waterers - 5 Pack
Self-Watering Probes - Vacation Plant Waterers - 5 Pack
Sale Price: $23.95
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Availability: Usually ships in 2-3 business days
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Description

Self Watering Probes are a simple and effective way of watering your plants while you are on vacation. Just soak them in water for a couple of minutes to prepare the tips, then insert the probes into the soil of your potted plants and place the hose ends in a water reservoir nearby. The water will be slowly emitted through the ceramic cones, automatically watering your plants without the need to set timers or worry about electronic devices being turned on while you are away.Made in Austria.

Features

  • Includes 5 self-watering probes (and hoses).
  • No electronics or complicated timers to set.
  • May use liquid fertilizer in water if desired.
  • Water reservoir not included.
  • Made in Austria
Aqua Globes Watering Bulbs 2-pk.
Aqua Globes Watering Bulbs 2-pk.
List Price: $9.99
Sale Price: $3.97
You save: $6.02 (60%)
  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 2-3 business days
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Description

Aqua Globes are an attractive solution for automatic houseplant watering. Fill he hand blown stained glass globes as the plant needs it. Aqua Globes are a great alternative to the daily chore of watering plants and an excellent choice for automatic watering while on vacation. How Aqua Globes Work As soil becomes dry, it releases oxygen into the Aqua Globe, which in turn releases the exact amount of water your plant needs. Automatically waters houseplants for up to 2 weeks. For indoor and outdoor potted plants. Hand-blown glass designs adds beauty to your plants. Includes gift boxes for sharing with friends & family Assorted Colors

Features

  • Waters plants perfectly for up to 2 weeks
  • For use with houseplants, hanging plants and patio plants
  • Easy to use, just fill and insert into soil
  • Never worry about leaving plants unattended
  • Genuine Hand Blown Stained glass
Plant Sitter Automatic Watering Sensor 3 Pk
Plant Sitter Automatic Watering Sensor 3 Pk
List Price: $17.95
Sale Price: $15.95
You save: $2.00 (11%)
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Description

Busy gardeners love the Plant Sitter sensor system. It delivers water to your plants based on the soil's dryness. Each ceramic cone measures 4-1/4in H x 1-1/2in dia ceramic cone with 18-1/2in siphon tube.

Features

  • In Stock
OXO Good Grips Mini Pour & Store Watering Can, 1.06-quart Green
OXO Good Grips Mini Pour & Store Watering Can, 1.06-quart Green
List Price: $10.95
Sale Price: $10.68
You save: $0.27 (2%)
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Description

The OXO Good Grips Mini Pour & Store Watering Can features a spout that conveniently rotates back toward the body allowing for easier filling and space-efficient storing. Water levels in the translucent spout line up with the measurement markings on the body for easy measuring. The continuous soft, non-slip handle allows for a comfortable, secure grip when carrying and pouring at all heights. The Can's 1 quart capacity is ideal for watering small houseplants, office plants and container gardens. The Can comes with a removable rose attachment that provides a finer, more delicate spray and stores conveniently in the back of the fill hole of the Can.

Features

  • Spout rotates back toward the body for easier filling and space-efficient storage
  • Water levels in the clear spout line up with measurement markings on the body for easy measuring
  • Continuous soft, non-slip handle for a comfortable, secure grip when carrying and pouring at all heights
  • Removable rose attachment stores conveniently in the back of the Can
  • 1.06-quart capacity
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