Container Garden Basics: How and When to Water Potted Plants

"How often do I need to water?" is usually the first question after finishing container gardens. Important question, and the honest answer: water as often as the plant requires. But determining when, how much, and how often involves several factors: container location, plant type, climate, and environment. Observation and knowing your plants' needs will teach you your container garden's watering rhythm.

Plant Needs

Plant tags indicate moisture preference: moist, medium, or dry. Cacti and succulents (like in the container shown) prefer soil to completely dry between waterings—overwatering causes decline. Tropicals often prefer moist soil—don't let it become dry to the touch. Find water needs by plant in the Houzz gardening section.

The tall papyrus here even tolerates pond placement. Knowing requirements ahead helps you pick a healthy container.

If unsure, observe. If it goes limp, it needs water—just don't let it go severely limp, which may cause permanent damage.

Check the Soil

The best way to tell if a plant needs water: feel the soil. If the first inch is dry and the plant has average needs, water. If it requires moist soil, don't let it get dry—may mean daily watering, more in dry climates.

How Much Is Enough?

General rule: water until you see water running from drainage holes. This ensures the root mass is sufficiently watered.

If the pot has completely dried out, soil contracts and water runs through too quickly. Repeat watering a few times to rehydrate.

Even after rain on outdoor containers, check soil—plant leaves divert some rain away.

How to Water

Better to water soil rather than leaves—wet leaves invite mildew and fungus.

Better to water in morning when roots are more receptive, giving plants ability to withstand daytime heat. If evening watering, allow enough time to dry before nightfall for health.

What to Use

Wand attachment on a hose or simple watering can works if you follow the above. For multiple containers, consider a drip irrigation system—many nurseries sell these handy devices with timers for watering while away. Emitters placed near soil deliver water quickly to roots.

More:
Container Garden Basics: The Dirt on Soil
See other Houzz container gardening guides