When it comes to how often to water plants, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The truth is that every plant has unique needs based on its environment, and no one can tell you exactly how often to water. That’s why checking the soil is key.
Read on for our seasonal and plant-specific guide on watering your plants at the right time.
For most tropical houseplants, like Monstera, Fiddle Leaf Fig, or Philodendron, the best watering practice is to let the soil dry out 50-80% before watering again. Fully saturating the soil until the excess water drains out ensures even hydration throughout the pot. Partial watering can lead to dry pockets and uneven moisture distribution, which can stunt growth and cause long-term health issues.
The approach is different for moisture-loving plants like Calathea, ferns, or Peace Lily. These plants prefer consistently moist (but not soggy) soil, and the right type of soil plays a large role in this. Water these plants thoroughly, allowing the excess to drain, but don’t let the soil dry out between waterings. The soil's top 20-30% should always feel slightly moist.
- Use humidity trays, misting, or group plants to create a more humid environment.
- Consider using a moisture meter to track the soil moisture more accurately.
Use a chopstick to check the moisture deeper down in the pot. Insert it into the soil, pull it out, and if it comes up dry, you know your soil is ready for water.
How often to water plants in fall and winter
How often you water plants will change as the seasons shift into fall and winter. With less sunlight and shorter days, your plants’ growth slows, meaning they use less water. Therefore, most plants will need less water during colder months. However, the exact watering frequency will depend on your plant’s environment.
- Heated environments: If you use indoor heaters, the air becomes much drier, so moisture-loving plants might need more frequent watering.
- Cooler environments: If your plants get less sunlight and sit in cooler areas, they won’t need as much water. Overwatering in these conditions can lead to root rot.
Watering patterns
When it comes to watering, different plants have their own rhythms. Drought-tolerant plants like succulents and snake plants love to dry out almost completely before a drink. On the other hand, moisture-loving plants like ferns and peace lilies prefer their soil consistently moist—just not soaked! Then there’s the middle ground crew, like the trusty Monstera, who likes to dry out about halfway before their next watering.
| Category | Watering Pattern | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Drought-Tolerant Plants | 90-100% dry before watering | Succulents, Hoya, Pilea, Dracaena, Snake Plant, Aloe, ZZ Plant |
| Moderately Moist Plants | 50-80% dry before watering | Fiddle Leaf Fig, Monstera, Ficus, Pothos, Philodendron, Rubber Plant |
| Moisture-Loving Plants | Consistently moist but not soggy |
Calathea, Ferns, Peace Lily, Prayer Plant, Alocasia, Fittonia |
How to check for soil moisture
The best way to know how often to water plants is to get hands-on with the soil. Instead of focusing on the top inch or two—since the depth varies based on pot size—consider percentages.
- For most tropical houseplants, aim for the top 50-80% of the soil to dry before watering again.
- Use a chopstick to check the moisture deeper down in the pot. Insert it into the soil, pull it out, and your soil is dry if it comes up clean.
- Moisture meters can also give you a more accurate picture of your plant’s water needs.
A few last tips for watering plants
Paying attention to the soil instead of following a rigid schedule will ensure your plants get the hydration they need, regardless of the season or environment. Whether you're wondering how often to water tropical houseplants or moisture-loving species, checking the soil is always the best approach.
Bonus: Don’t forget to explore our plant care products that can help keep your plants hydrated and healthy year-round!