Watering Calculator
Overwatering is the #1 reason houseplants die. This calculator tells you in 20 seconds exactly how often to water — based on pot size, light, and season.
💧 How Often Should You Water?
Yellow leaves that feel soft and mushy are the most common sign. Also watch for mold on the soil surface, a musty smell, and small fungus gnats. In the worst case, roots rot — then only repotting helps.
Leaves droop limply, the soil is bone-dry and pulls away from the pot edges. Brown, crispy leaf tips are another warning sign. Succulents will visibly shrivel.
Yes, for most plants the finger test works perfectly. Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry → water. If it still feels moist → wait. For large pots or sensitive plants, a moisture meter is more precise.
Top watering works fine for most plants — just avoid letting water sit on the leaves. Bottom watering (placing the pot in water) is gentler and helps prevent fungus gnats. Orchids and African violets prefer this method.
Let tap water sit overnight — it works well for most plants. Rainwater is ideal — it's soft and contains no mineral buildup. For lime-sensitive plants like orchids or ferns, filtered or distilled water is better.
For vacations, watering systems are invaluable. For daily use, they can keep the soil constantly moist — which is harmful for cacti and succulents. A moisture meter gives you more control.
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All recommendations are based on our plant care experience.