Discover the top reasons you want to bottom water your houseplants. Bottom watering is good to use for plants susceptible to leaf rot (fungal) diseases. It’s also a good idea to bottom water if you are watering at night. Bottom watering is also good to do if you want to water less frequently, as the soil tends to stay wet longer.
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Is it better to bottom water houseplants or water from the top?
There are several reasons you might choose to bottom water your houseplants. A top reason is if the plant is susceptible to leaf spotting or fungal diseases—like African violets, which have fuzzy leaves that hold onto moisture. In these cases, bottom watering keeps the foliage dry, helping prevent disease.
Bottom watering is also ideal if you’re watering at night. Wet leaves sitting overnight can lead to fungal issues. Letting the roots absorb water from below keeps the leaves dry and healthier.
If you live in a humid climate, where foliage stays wet for extended periods, bottom watering can help prevent leaf diseases. On the other hand, in a dry climate, top watering usually isn’t a problem because the leaves dry quickly.
Another advantage of bottom watering is that the soil becomes more saturated. By placing the pot in a tray of water and letting it sit, the roots soak up water thoroughly. This leads to better hydration and less frequent watering.
Bottom watering also ensures that all parts of the soil get moist, unlike top watering which may miss some areas and allow water to run off too quickly.
Ultimately, whether you should bottom or top water depends on your specific conditions—your home’s temperature and humidity, the plant type, and even the time of year. You might switch between both methods depending on the situation.
In Southern California, for example, we experience Santa Ana winds that can rapidly lower humidity. In that case, top watering won’t harm the leaves because they’ll dry fast. But during moist periods, bottom watering may be a better choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bottom Watering Houseplants
What is bottom watering for houseplants?
Bottom watering involves placing a plant’s pot in a tray of water and letting the soil soak up moisture from below, rather than watering from the top.
When should you bottom water instead of top watering?
Bottom watering is recommended for plants with fuzzy leaves like African violets or in humid conditions where wet foliage can lead to fungal issues.
Is bottom watering better for humid climates?
Yes, bottom watering is ideal in humid environments where leaves stay moist for longer, which can lead to disease when watered from above.
Does bottom watering make the soil more saturated?
Yes, bottom watering allows the soil to absorb water thoroughly, ensuring even moisture throughout the pot and reducing the need for frequent watering.
Can you combine top and bottom watering?
Yes, many plant owners switch between both methods depending on climate, plant needs, and watering goals like hydration or disease prevention.
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