Watering Myth Busted: How to water plants the right way

The Truth About Watering: Why You Can't 'Over-Water' Your Plants

It's a common fear among plant owners: the dreaded "over-watering."   But here's a secret that might change the way you care for your collection: no plant can be truly over-watered, as long as you meet four critical conditions.

The problem isn't the amount of water; it's the conditions the plant is kept in.   A plant that is constantly saturated is suffering from poor conditions, not just a heavy hand.

Don't let the plant wisdom stop here!   I hope this little breakdown on root rot changes the way you think about watering. 
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The Four Pillars of Healthy Watering

Meet these criteria, and your plants will thrive, even with a thorough soaking:

1. Excellent Drainage: This is non-negotiable.   Any excess water must be able to drain away freely and completely.   Your pot should never sit in a saucer full of water-that's a recipe for root rot.  

2. The Right Timing: Water when the plant is actively growing, not when it's dormant or resting for the season.   Watering a plant during its resting period can lead to rot because it's not using the moisture.

3. Correct Growing Medium: The soil must be appropriate for the specific plant.   A fast-draining potting mix is desirable for most houseplants and containers.  This allows air to return to the roots quickly after watering.

4. Water Only When Needed: Forget the calendar!   Watering on a set schedule is a common mistake.   Your watering frequency depends entirely on the plant, the season, the temperature, and the soil's moisture level.   Always check before you water.

The Real Problem: Scared Watering

Most plant health issues attributed to "over-watering" are actually the result of under-watering or what we call "scared watering."

Fearing they'll drown their plants, many people only give a tiny sip of water.  

This minimal moisture keeps the roots concentrated near the soil surface, where they are easily exposed to rapid drying and stress.   This prevents the strong, deep root structure needed for a healthy plant.

The Fix: When it's time to water, do it thoroughly.

Always water your plants until the water drains out the bottom of the pot.  This action encourages deep, strong root growth throughout the entire container.  Once you've done this, leave the plant alone until the soil has reached the appropriate dryness level for that specific variety.

Key Takeaway

A healthy watering routine is about deep saturation followed by a period of appropriate dryness, based on the plant's needs, not the calendar.

I also write blogs and if you want to read my one about watering, especially cacti, here is the link

New Products

I have been working on a few new pottery lines.

Fortune cookies

They are still awaiting their final firing, but hopefully, this gives you an idea of how they will look.

They are a full circle, folded gently in half, with a cavity to hold the written text.

These will come with written fortunes included. The idea is that they are used every year and become a tradition.

They can also be used as Christmas decorations.

Little Houses 

Sorry, the photo isn't very clear.  They have not had their final firing yet.

Small enough to add to a gift box.    These could be put into your potted plants.    Use them as fairy houses in your garden. 

Each is different, about 3cm tall.

Upcoming Markets

Te Awamutu Craft/Rosetown Market

Saturday November 22

Plant Extravaganza

Saturday 28 February 2026

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