Indoor plants should generally be watered when the soil is dry to the touch, which can be checked by sticking a finger about 1-2 inches into the soil. Most houseplants need watering approximately once a week to once every two weeks, depending on the plant type, the season, and the indoor climate. Overwatering daily is usually too frequent and can harm the plants. Specific guidelines include:
- Water most houseplants thoroughly until water drains out of the pot's bottom, then let the soil dry out before watering again.
- Succulents and cacti require much less frequent watering, only when the soil is completely dry, usually every 2-3 weeks or longer.
- Orchids should be watered about once a week with a small amount.
- Citrus plants may need more frequent watering than other houseplants.
- Watering frequency decreases in the cooler, less sunny autumn and winter months.
Watering is best done with room temperature water during the daytime, avoiding watering the leaves to prevent disease. Using rainwater or distilled water is sometimes recommended because tap water can contain salts or chemicals that some plants don't tolerate well. In summary, the best practice is to check the moisture level of soil and water only when dry, roughly every 7-14 days for most plants, adjusting based on the specific plant's needs and seasonal changes.