How often should you water an indoor plant?

It is probably the question most asked by people who own plants: how often should you water them?

The answer depends on many factors. There is no universal frequency.

Why there is no single rule

A plant may need water:

• every 3 days in summer
• once every 2 weeks in winter

It depends in particular on:

• the species
• the temperature
• the light
• the type of pot
• the humidity of the room

This is particularly true in autumn: a plant that has just come back indoors after the summer no longer has the same water needs at all, even though the reflex is often to keep the watering rhythm of the warm season.

The most common mistakes

Watering on a fixed schedule

Many people water “every Sunday”. Yet a plant's needs change constantly.

Watering without checking the soil

Before watering, always check whether the soil is still damp deeper down.

Giving too much water

Too much water often causes:

• yellow leaves
• rotten roots
• fungus gnats
• the death of the plant

If you recognize these signs, our article explains how to save an overwatered plant.

How do you know when to water?

Here are a few simple methods:

• touch the soil with your finger
• lift the pot to check its weight
• observe the leaves
• use a dedicated app

The easiest plants to start with

If you are just starting out, some plants are more forgiving:

• pothos
• sansevieria
• zamioculcas
• monstera

They cope better with watering mistakes and are ideal for learning.

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