How Often Should I Water My Houseplants?

Watering is one of the most important parts of plant care—but also one of the most confusing. Too much, and your plant’s roots can rot. Too little, and it will wilt. So how do you know how often to water your houseplants? The answer depends on your plant type, pot size, environment, and even the season.

Here’s everything you need to know about watering houseplants the right way.

Why Watering Matters

Water does more than just hydrate your plants. It:

Provides structural support (think of plant cells as water balloons—when they’re full, your plant stands tall).

Cools your plant down through evaporation.

Moves nutrients and minerals throughout the plant.

Without enough water, your plant’s cells deflate, causing it to wilt. Pair wilted leaves with dry soil, and you have a clear sign your plant is thirsty.

How Often Should You Water?

Just like light, different plants need different amounts of water. The best way to know how often to water is to think about your plant’s natural environment.

Succulents and desert natives: These plants store water in their fleshy leaves, thick stems, or rhizomes. They like to stay dry and prefer infrequent watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out, then water thoroughly. Depending on the season, this might mean every 2–4 weeks.

Tropical plants (like Monstera, Bird’s Nest Fern, or Peace Lily): These plants are used to frequent rainfall in their natural habitats and don’t store water the way succulents do. They thrive with more frequent watering—about once a week, sometimes twice during summer.

Pro tip: Size matters. Smaller pots with less soil dry out faster than large planters. Two of the same plant in different-sized pots will have different watering needs.

How Much Water Should You Use?

Water evenly around the potting mix to saturate the soil, but avoid creating mud.

For pots with drainage holes: water until you see water run out the bottom. Let it sit in the saucer for 15–30 minutes, then discard the excess.

For pots without drainage: be extra cautious. Only water about ⅓–¼ of the pot’s volume to avoid waterlogging the roots.

Avoid splashing water on leaves, as this can lead to fungal or bacterial spots—unless you’re caring for epiphytes like air plants.

Should You Set a Watering Schedule?

It’s tempting to water your plants on the same day every week, but strict schedules can cause overwatering. Instead, use your calendar as a reminder to check in on your plants.

If the soil feels dry, water.

If it’s still moist, wait a few more days.

It’s always easier to add water than to take it away, so when in doubt, lean toward underwatering rather than overwatering.

Seasonal Changes in Watering

Your plants’ needs change with the seasons:

Summer: Longer days and stronger light = more frequent watering. Even succulents may need weekly waterings, while tropicals might need water twice a week.

Winter: Shorter days and less growth = less water. Succulents may only need water once a month, while tropicals drop down to every 1–2 weeks.

Golden Rules for Watering Houseplants

Use room temperature or tepid water—cold water can shock the roots.

Let tap water sit overnight before using if your plant is sensitive to chlorine.

Plants in brighter light need water more often than those in low light.

Larger pots dry out more slowly than small ones.

Look for visible signs of thirst: wrinkled succulent leaves or drooping tropical stems paired with dry soil.

Final Tip: Don’t think of watering as a fixed routine. Think of it as a conversation with your plants. Check the soil, observe the leaves, and adjust based on the season. With a little practice, you’ll learn your plants’ unique “thirst signals” and give them just what they need to thrive.