Effects of Watering Plants at Night
In general, most houseplants can tolerate being in water for a short period, but it’s not advisable to leave them there for too long. The main argument against watering plants at night is that it could lead to fungal growth and diseases. When water sits on the leaves and stems of a plant overnight, there is a greater chance of fungal infections developing. This is because fungi thrive in damp, humid environments, and nighttime watering can create such a situation.
Proper Watering Techniques for Indoor Plants
You should water indoor plants thoroughly with good quality water, using top or bottom watering. The water must soak through the soil and out the drainage holes. Plants need water to survive, and an occasional “sip” doesn’t work. Underwatering plants is just as bad as overwatering. If you have any small bits of damage, make a clean cut as this will help the plant to recover quickly and fight off any possible fungal infection.
Soaking Duration for Plants
How long can you leave plants soaking in water? You can revive a dry air plant by soaking it in water for 5-8 hours. Shake off any extra water after the soak and let your air plant dry within 4 hours of watering. Repeat the long soaking every 2-3 days until the plant does not look dry anymore.
Factors Affecting Soaking Duration
Soaking plants in water involves submerging the plant pot in water and allowing the soil to absorb it. This technique is particularly useful when your plants have become dry or dehydrated, and it helps to ensure that your plant receives enough moisture. The duration of soaking plants in water varies depending on several factors. Here are some that you should consider: Plant Type.
Avoiding Root Rot and Overwatering
The most common mistake when bottom watering plants is to leave them in water for too long, causing the lower roots to drown and leading to root rot. To avoid this problem, use filtered water with no chlorine or fluoride and allow the plants to soak for 10 to 20 minutes. Use Bottom Watering To Channel Water to Plant’s Root Zone.
Watering Timing and Best Practices
In many cases, houseplants can thrive in water indefinitely as long as you provide what they need to continue growing. However, it’s important never to let your plants sit in water as it can lead to root rot. Air plants are not too picky when it comes to water, but ensure the quality of tap water in your area is suitable. Middle-of-the-day watering is not recommended, and early morning irrigation is best to prevent water evaporation.
Reviving Air Plants
You can revive a dry air plant by soaking it in water for 5-8 hours and repeating the process every 2-3 days until the plant no longer looks dry.
Growing Plants in Water
There are two ways to grow plants in water: with a cutting or with an adult plant. Cuttings can be taken by snipping new growth from a houseplant, while adult indoor plants can be transferred from soil to water after washing the roots thoroughly. Choose a Plant Container carefully to ensure proper growth.
Watering Considerations for Indoor Plants
The morning is generally considered the best time to water indoor plants, as it allows them to absorb water before it gets too hot and dark. Avoid watering indoor plants at night to prevent diseases and promote healthy growth.