How can I really tell if my plants need water?

Sam Nance
by Sam Nance
  7 answers
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Mar 10, 2018

    what plants


  • Debi53 Debi53 on Mar 10, 2018

    It depends on the particular plant, but in general if the surface of the soil is dry, give the plant a drink, but not too much. Soaking a plant can rot the roots in some cases. Make sure the plant pot has drainage holes. If you do this and see that your plant leaves droop or the edges turn brown or leaves are drying up, then this plant probably needs more water. Most plants do fine with once a week watering, but some need twice a week. The best thing is to do a web search of your particular plant to know exactly how to care for it.

    • See 1 previous
    • Debi53 Debi53 on Mar 10, 2018

      Yes. All plants should have drainage. You can use a drill to make holes in the pots they are in if you don't want to buy new pots.

  • Sh Sh on Mar 10, 2018

    Stick your finger in the dirt. If it is not moist give them some water. Never over water. Look at the leaves. Do they look like they need something? You should know what type of plants you have. Then it is better to decide how much water they need.


  • DesertRose DesertRose on Mar 10, 2018

    My Grandma told me to stick my finger in the dirt in to the knuckle. If it felt damp to leave it, but if it felt dry to water it well, then leave it until it is felt dry again. She was always poking her finger in her potted plants and flowers and then I understood why. Her method of knowing when to water has never failed me. I do the same outside if I am not sure. I hope this helps. By the way, my Grandma always had the most flowers and most beautiful yard in town.

  • Lla7675750 Lla7675750 on Mar 10, 2018

    I use a wooden skewer to check the moisture. Like using a toothpick to check a cake when baking.

  • Sh Sh on Mar 11, 2018

    It likes low direct light, or medium to low indirect light. It needs the soil to dry out before watering. Check the internet for other suggestions about the corn plant.