Learn How to Properly Water Your Plants This National Houseplant Week 2025
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Time to read 3 min
Every 2nd week in January the UK celebrates National Houseplant Week, a time dedicated to embracing the joy and benefits of houseplants in our homes. But this week is about more than just admiring houseplants - it’s a perfect opportunity to dedicate some time to learn how to care for them better.
This year, the spotlight is on one of the most fundamental aspects of plant care: watering. While it may seem simple, watering correctly is essential to helping your plants thrive. Whether you’re a novice plant parent or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding how to meet your plant's watering needs can make all the difference in keeping them healthy and vibrant. We get a lot of queries on watering and common watering-related issues from customers, so felt this week was a great time to sit down and write a detailed blog.
We hope you find this useful and welcome any questions in the comments section.
Why Proper Watering Matters
Watering is often underestimated, but it’s one of the primary reasons houseplants either flourish or fail. Both overwatering and underwatering are among the leading causes of houseplant death, so striking the right balance is critical.
Proper watering ensures healthy roots, supports steady growth, and extends your plant’s lifespan. A well-hydrated plant is not just happier; it’s also more resilient and beautiful and some will even reward you with breath-taking flowers.
How to Water Your Plants Like an Expert
Mastering the art of watering involves understanding your plants’ unique needs, checking soil conditions, and applying the right techniques. Here’s how you can get it right.
Know Your Plant’s Needs
Every plant has different watering requirements based on its species and natural habitat. Tropical plants like calatheas thrive in consistently moist soil, while drought-tolerant succulents prefer a dry environment. Take the time to research each plant in your collection to understand its ideal conditions.
Check the Soil Before Watering
One of the simplest ways to avoid overwatering is by checking the soil’s moisture level. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil and if it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, give it a few more days. For extra precision, consider using a moisture meter to take the guesswork out of watering.
Use the Right Watering Technique
There are two primary methods for watering houseplants:
Bottom Watering : Place the pot in a shallow tray of water and allow the soil to absorb moisture through the drainage holes. This technique encourages even hydration.
Top Watering : Pour water gently over the soil until it runs out of the drainage holes. This method helps flush out any salt buildup from fertilisers. With this method, it is easy to get a little carried away and overwater, so it is important to make sure the pot your plant lives in has sufficient drainage holes.
Water Deeply, Not Frequently
Instead of giving your plants small, frequent sips of water, aim for deep, less frequent watering sessions. This encourages the roots to grow deeper and stronger, supporting the overall health of the plant.
Adjust for the Seasons
Houseplants require different levels of care depending on the time of year. During winter, many plants enter a dormant phase and need less water. Conversely, in spring and summer, their active growing phase demands more frequent hydration.
Common Watering-related plant problems
Knowing the symptoms of watering mistakes can help you correct them quickly.
Overwatering: Look out for yellowing leaves, mushy roots, and soil that stays perpetually wet.
Underwatering: Watch for crispy, brown leaf edges, drooping leaves, or soil that pulls away from the pot’s edges.
Tools to Simplify Watering
The right tools can make plant care easier and more effective. For example, Self-Watering Pots are perfect for plants that need consistent moisture without frequent monitoring. Moisture Meters can also be a handy device for new plant parents to ensure you’re watering at the right time.
A bonus tip from the Kojo Plant Experts!
When caring for your houseplants, one often-overlooked detail is the temperature of the water you use for watering. Extreme temperatures, such as very hot or cold water, can shock your plants, especially during winter when indoor temperatures might already be lower than usual. Always aim for lukewarm or room-temperature water to keep your green companions comfortable and thriving.
Another trend we’ve noticed is the use of leftover rice or pasta water as a natural fertiliser. While this can provide some nutrients, it's crucial to be cautious of salt levels. Excess salt from cooking can harm your plant’s roots and soil over time, doing more damage than good. If you’d like to try this method, ensure the water is free of salt and other additives to keep your plants happy and healthy.
With mindful care and a little extra attention to detail, your houseplants can thrive like never before.
Happy National Houseplant Week everyone! 🌿
