Practical guide
Watering plants
Watering needs depend on the plant, substrate, pot, air humidity, weather, and season. A fixed watering schedule is therefore unreliable.
Check the pot’s weight
Remember the pot’s weight after watering and compare it as the soil dries. This is a practical indicator of how much moisture remains.
Observe the leaves
Leaf firmness, or turgor, can offer a useful clue: a firm leaf usually indicates sufficient moisture, while loss of firmness may signal that watering is needed.
Avoid overwatering
Overwatering is often more dangerous than a short dry period because standing water restricts oxygen around the roots. Moisture-loving plants, including ferns, tolerate severe drying less well.