What exactly is overwatering? Overwatering isn’t watering too much at once. Overwatering refers to watering too frequently. If you water your houseplants too often, that can cause overwatering and result in conditions such as root rot. Find out how to water correctly. You want to completely soak the soil and then wait for the plant to nearly dry out again before watering.
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Today’s question: What is overwatering?
Many new indoor (and outdoor) gardeners mistakenly believe that overwatering means applying too much water at once. In reality, overwatering means watering too frequently, not the amount used in one session.
For example, if you water on Monday, then again Thursday because the soil surface looks dry, and again on Saturday due to hot weather—that’s overwatering. Most houseplants can’t tolerate frequent watering and will suffer from root rot and slowed growth as a result.
Instead, wait until your plant is approaching dryness—or in some cases, already dry—before you water again. When you do water, give it a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom. Then, wait for the soil to dry again before repeating the process.
Here’s a demonstration using a Dracaena:
Insert a moisture meter into the soil to check dryness at various depths.
When the meter reads “dry,” it’s time to water.
Use warm to tepid water (not cold), as cold water can shock roots and lead to dieback—especially in winter.
Thoroughly soak the plant, allowing excess water to drain completely.
Once watered, your plant will feel heavier, and the moisture meter should read between 7–10, indicating proper hydration.
Using lighter soil with pumice helps with drainage and root health.
You can also use bottom watering, letting the plant absorb water from below. This method can prolong the time between waterings and works well for smaller pots.
Remember: Water less often but thoroughly to keep your houseplants thriving.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Overwatering Houseplants
What does overwatering really mean?
Overwatering refers to watering too frequently rather than using too much water in one session. It can lead to root rot and poor plant health.
How do I know if I’m watering my plant too often?
If you’re watering before the soil has dried out, especially within just a few days, it’s likely too frequent. Use a moisture meter to check soil dryness.
How should I water my houseplants correctly?
Wait until the soil is dry or nearly dry before watering. Then, soak the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot.
Why is warm water better for watering houseplants?
Cold tap water can shock plant roots, especially in winter, leading to root dieback. Warm or tepid water matches room temperature and is safer for roots.
What is bottom watering and is it effective?
Bottom watering involves placing the plant in a tray of water to allow absorption from below. It helps fully saturate the root zone and reduces overwatering risks.
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