The golden rule: check the soil
Push a finger about 2–5 cm (1–2 in) into the soil. If it's dry at that depth, most houseplants are ready for water. If it's still damp, wait and check again in a few days. When you do water, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer.
A simple schedule by plant type
- Succulents and cacti: every 2–4 weeks; let the soil dry completely.
- Snake plant and ZZ plant: every 2–4 weeks.
- Pothos, philodendron, monstera: about every 1–2 weeks, when the top few centimeters are dry.
- Peace lily, ferns, calathea: about weekly; keep soil lightly moist but never soggy.
- Fiddle leaf fig and rubber plant: about every 1–2 weeks.
These are typical ranges for spring and summer indoors. Always check the soil before watering.
What changes how often you water
- Light: plants in bright spots use water faster than plants in dim rooms.
- Season: most plants need much less water in autumn and winter.
- Pot type: terracotta dries faster than plastic or glazed ceramic.
- Pot size: small pots dry out quicker than large ones.
- Humidity and heating: dry indoor air and radiators speed up drying.
Signs you're watering too much or too little
- Too much: yellow, soft leaves; soil that stays wet; fungus gnats; mushy stems.
- Too little: crispy brown edges; drooping that recovers after watering; soil pulling away from the pot.
Watering tips
- Use pots with drainage holes.
- Room-temperature water is gentler on roots.
- Water in the morning so leaves dry during the day.
- When in doubt, wait a day — underwatering is easier to fix than overwatering.
Let PlantBetter help
PlantBetter creates a watering schedule for each of your plants and sends reminders when it's time — so you never have to guess.