How often should I water potted plants?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Watering potted plants properly is essential for their sustainability and health. Container plants will dry out much faster than garden beds, especially in the heat. I learned this the hard way when I lost some ferns during a particularly hot spell. Proper watering frequency helps prevent root die-off and leaf drop. If plants' life depends on your watering, and, in totality, that's just what they do.
Pot Material Impact
- Terracotta pots dry 30% faster than plastic or glazed ceramic
- Lightweight materials heat up quicker increasing evaporation
- Group same-material pots for consistent moisture management
Plant Type Needs
- Succulents need weekly watering even in summer heat
- Ferns require daily moisture checks in dry weather
- Fruiting tomatoes in pots demand twice-daily attention
Use the lift test to check soil moisture. Light pots need watering right away. Heavy pots can wait. Stick your finger down 2 inches deep near the stems. If the soil feels dry, water it now. My rosemary survived months of drought because I used this straightforward daily check.
Always water until the point where the bottom of the pot is draining about 20%. This helps flush salts and creates deep saturation. Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots, place in a saucer, but empty it after about 30 minutes. Stagnant water promotes rot.
Tweak your watering for the seasons. In summer, I water thoroughly in the morning and again at the end of the day. In winter, I will check them about once a month. If heat spikes happen quickly, add mulch to help retain that moisture. Group plants together to create microclimates for protection. This is how my patio garden survived the blistering heat of August.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Tips: When to Water Plants
