Potted Plant Watering: Wet-Dry and Thoroughly Wet Techniques
In the process of caring for potted plants, watering is a crucial factor that determines the survival of the plant. Different plants have significantly different water requirements. Mastering the two core watering methods—wet-dry and thoroughly wet—ensures healthy root growth for potted plants and avoids the risks of root rot or dehydration. This article will provide a detailed explanation of the scenarios and practical points of these two watering methods through comparative analysis.
I. Detailed Explanation of the Wet-Dry Watering Method
1.1 Basic Principles and Operations
The wet-dry method emphasizes timely补水 after the topsoil dries out, suitable for plants like succulents and pothos that prefer moisture but fear waterlogging. When operating, observe the soil surface to turn white to a depth of 1-2 cm, then slowly pour water along the pot edge with a narrow-mouthed kettle until water seeps out of the bottom drainage hole.
1.2 List of Suitable Plants
• Succulents: Jade, Bear's Breeches, etc., with fleshy roots• Foliage plants: Ivy,吊兰 (Spider Plant), Monstera• Flowering plants: African Violet, Cyclamen (during the growing season)
II. Thoroughly Wet Maintenance Technique
2.1 Deep Watering Standard
Suitable for drought-tolerant plants like the Money Tree and Snake Plant. Wait for the potting soil to be completely dry (no sticky soil when tested with a bamboo skewer), use the immersion method or water in three intervals to ensure water渗透 to the bottom of the pot. The watering amount should reach 1/3 of the pot volume, and in winter, it can be extended to once every 20 days.
2.2 Key Points for Root Protection
The thoroughly wet state stimulates the development of capillary roots but needs to be combined with a loose substrate (perlite content > 30%). After watering, tilt the pot 45 degrees to drain excess water, and during high summer temperatures, complement with foliar spraying to maintain humidity balance.
III. Practical Diagnostic Techniques
• Finger Joint Test: Insert the index finger into the second joint of the soil; if dry, it needs补水• Pot Weighing Method: Record the weight difference before and after watering; if the difference is >15%, water• Smart Monitoring: Insert a soil moisture meter; if the value is below 30%, start the watering program
Correctly applying these two watering methods can increase the survival rate of potted plants by over 60%. It is recommended to implement a thoroughly wet cycle once a month for succulents to exercise the roots and maintain a wet-dry rhythm for foliage plants. Combined with breathable containers like red clay pots, it can effectively prevent 90% of root rot issues, allowing the plant to reach its best growth state.