Watering correctly: How much water does your plant really need?

Too much, too little, too often, or too rarely – watering is probably the most common reason why your houseplants die. However, the water needs of your plants can vary greatly depending on the species. So, how do you find the right amount of water to give?

In this post, you'll learn what truly matters when it comes to watering – and how to optimally care for your plants.

1. Needs differ

Not all plants drink the same amount. Generally:

- Succulents & cacti store water in their leaves or stems – therefore, they only need water infrequently.

- Tropical plants like Calathea or ferns prefer consistently slightly moist conditions and benefit from higher humidity under constant conditions.

- Flowering plants like orchids or peace lilies have a higher water requirement during their blooming period.

👉Rule of thumb: Know your plant's origin to adjust its water needs accordingly – desert dwellers need less water, rainforest dwellers need more.

2. The right time to water

Instead of following a calendar, you should observe your plant:

- Feel the top layer of soil: If it's dry, you can water it.

- Lift the pot: If it feels noticeably light, your plant needs water.

- Some plants (e.g., peace lilies) clearly show thirst by drooping leaves. Get to know your plant. How does it look when it has enough water? And how does it show you a deficiency?

3. How much water is right?

A common mistake is "sip-watering." It's better to water thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. However, any excess water in the saucer or cachepot should definitely be removed after 10–15 minutes, otherwise waterlogging is a risk.

👉Tip: Moisture meters (SUStee also has them in their shop) or pots with watering indicators can be helpful to ensure whether your plant needs watering.

4. Consider water quality

Not only the quantity, but also the type of water plays a role:

- Tap water is often too calcareous for sensitive plant species – for example, for orchids, ferns, or some tropical friends.

- Rainwater is ideal as it is soft and nutrient-rich.

- Stale water at room temperature is better than cold water directly from the tap.

5. Watering according to season

Plants have growth phases – and their water needs are based on these:

- Spring & Summer: More light = more growth = more thirst.

- Autumn & Winter: Less light = dormancy = less water.

6. Avoid typical mistakes

🚫 Overwatering → roots rot, plant slowly dies, and often this is noticed much too late. (Tip: transparent plant pots help you observe the roots)

🚫 Always the same amount → ignores the actual need.

🚫 Only watering from above → some plants benefit from an occasional soak.

Proper watering is not rocket science – it's about observation. Pay attention to your plant's needs, regularly check the soil, and water less often but thoroughly. Over time, you'll develop a feel for how much water your green housemates really need.