How Much Water is Enough?

Disclaimer: This blog post is written based on my personal experiences to share how I care for my plants since I do have my own plant collection as a rare plant collector. There are different ways to maintain different types of (rare) plant, please do your own research to find a solution that best suits your needs.

WHEN SHOULD I WATER MY PLANTS?

Generally speaking, the less soil are in your grow pots, the quicker the soil will dry out.

In case you’re wondering how is my watering schedule look like, I don't have one.

I’m only water my plants when I see the growing medium is almost dry. Most plants will benefit from drying out between waterings; however, some Anthuriums and other moisture-loving plants, its growing medium should be kept moist (but not soggy) at all time.

I normally feel the plant by lifting up the grow pot, if the grow pot is lightweight, the plant needs water; and if it's still heavy, I don’t need to water them.

Another way to know if the soil is dry out yet just by simply looking at it. This way will work if your plants are growing in clear pots.

If the growing medium is dry, water the potting mix evenly around the plant. Avoid misting onto your plant's foliage, which could cause fungal and bacterial spots (Unless, the area is well-ventilated with fan or wind)

HOW MUCH WATER IS ENOUGH?

My favorite way to monitor plants specially plants that are prone to rot like this Monstera borsigiana ‘albo variegata’ here is to grow them in clear grow pots. And to achieve a better look, I pop them into a none drainage hole cache pot.

Some plants are really enjoy living in pure Sphagnum moss so we keep growing them in moss instead of transferring to soil even when they are established. This is a very common growing method for starters and specially Anthuriums. 95% of my Anthuriums are growing in pure Sphagnum moss and with regular feeding, they still growing beautifully .

In every watering, I let the water run thoroughly until I see water stay in the none-drainage hole cache pot, I always let the plant sit for another 10-20 minutes, allowing the plant's roots to soak more up, then I discard the water in the cache pot.

I would not recommend growing your plants in any grow pots, nursery pots or any planters without drainage holes. You can also grow your plants straight in nice ceramic pots but it must have drainage holes and its saucer or drip tray.