A gardener has shared some important plant watering advice (Image: Getty)
Ever wondered if you’re making a mistake when it comes to watering your plants? A gardening expert has provided a handy watering schedule guide detailing timeframes of several common plants.
“Struggling to keep your houseplants happy? Overwatering and underwatering are the biggest mistakes plant parents make,” explained Facebook’s DIY Garden Growing Hacks page, which is operated by Tiny Garden Habit (TGH) and founded by expert Adriana Sim.
“Houseplants are different for everybody; what one person considers to be a houseplant may be better suited as a garden plant for another,” they continued. “However, there are certain plants that have gained widespread popularity for being kept indoors.”
Fiddle-Leaf Fig
These can grow up to 10-12 feet, according to TGH. “If you’re keeping one indoors, it’s best to place it somewhere spacious to allow for adequate vertical growth,” they said. “This plant is quite a needy one when it comes to care and maintenance but water should only be given every 7-10 days.
Succulents and Cactus
Many opt to add these to the home as they’re attractive and easy to care for. “Ideally, these resilient plants should be watered every 10-15 days,” TGH advises. “But during winter, you should extend it to every 3 to 4 weeks.”
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Orchids
Arguably the most aesthetically pleasing common houseplant is the orchid. “These are truly majestic indoors, especially when grown in hanging baskets or tall, slender pots,” TGH continues. “Most orchid varieties also give off a sweet aroma which makes them even better for indoor environments. For the best and safest growth, water your orchids every 5-10 days.
Spider Plants
Another popular houseplant is the Spider Plant, which TGH says appeals best to teh eye in a clean, white home environment. “These plants are easy to maintain and should be watered every 7-10 days to prevent overwatering -related issues which are common with spider plants,” they warn.
Monstera
This plant (pictured above) can prove notorious when it comes to waterlogging in it’s pot, according to TGH. To help combat this, they note: “Watering this plant any more frequently than every 7-10 days is likely to cause root rot and leaf discoloration.
Ferns
“Certain ferns like Boston Fern or Bird’s Nest Fern are excellent choices for houseplants,” TGH continues. “However, you must keep in mind that ferns require slightly different care and maintenance compared to your average plant.” And when it comes to watering, they recommend waiting no longer than 4-7 days in between sessions. “Ferns like a consistently moist soil but not soggy!” they add.
Peace Lilly
Similar to Monstera, Peace Lillies are also prone to waterlogging too and it is therefore advisable to water them every four to seven days. “Just like Ferns, Peace Lilly likes a consistently moist soil but not soggy!” TGH says.
Responding to the advice, one Facebook user added their own advice, penning: “Depends on light intensity relative humidity, ambient temperature, type and size of container, soil structure amongst other variables… get a moisture gage and check the soil first.”
While a second warned: “It’s winter and the air in the house is dry even though I have bowls of water on all the radiators. The plants dry out quickly.”