# Summer Watering Guide: How Much Is Too Much? Summer is peak growing season, but it's also when the most watering mistakes happen. Let's get it right. ## The Golden Rule Water based on the plant's needs, not on a schedule. The same plant may need watering twice a week in summer and once a fortnight in winter. ## How to Check If Your Plant Needs Water 1. **Finger test** – Stick your finger 2-3cm into the soil. Dry? Water. Moist? Wait. 2. **Pot weight** – Lift the pot. Light means dry, heavy means still wet. 3. **Moisture meter** – A cheap tool that removes all guesswork. 4. **Visual cues** – Slightly droopy leaves often mean "water me." ## Watering by Plant Type ### Tropical Plants (Monstera, Calathea, Fern) - Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged - Water when top 2cm is dry - Increase humidity with misting ### Succulents & Cacti - Let soil dry completely between waterings - Even in summer, every 10-14 days is plenty - Never let them sit in water ### Foliage Plants (Pothos, Philodendron) - Water when top 3-4cm is dry - These are pretty forgiving either way - Good drainage is key ## Summer Watering Tips - **Water in the morning** – Allows excess to evaporate during the day - **Water deeply** – Until water runs from drainage holes - **Empty saucers** – Don't let pots sit in standing water - **Check daily** – Summer heat can dry pots quickly - **Terracotta dries faster** – Factor in pot material - **Grouping helps** – Plants grouped together retain moisture better ## Signs of Over-watering - Yellow, mushy leaves - Soil smells sour or musty - Fungus gnats - Root rot (brown, slimy roots) ## Signs of Under-watering - Crispy, brown leaf edges - Wilting that recovers after watering - Slow growth - Soil pulling away from pot edges Happy summer growing!