Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry
Watering is one of the most common places where new plant owners overthink things. Most people assume plants need small amounts of water frequently, but for many houseplants, the opposite is true. In general, plants do better when they are watered thoroughly and then allowed to dry slightly before being watered again.
Water Deeply, Not Constantly
When you water, the goal is to soak the soil until water drains from the bottom of the pot. This encourages roots to grow deeper and helps prevent shallow, weak root systems.
Check the Soil Before Watering
The easiest way to know whether a plant needs water is to test the soil with your finger or a chopstick. If the soil is still damp, wait. If it feels dry, it is time to water.
Different Plants Need Different Rhythms
A pothos and a cactus do not want the same thing. Plants that like more moisture may need watering every week or so during the growing season, while cactus and succulents may go several weeks between waterings.
Learn more in the full guide
In The Practical Guide to Houseplants, watering is broken down by plant type, season, and soil condition, so it feels much easier to know what to do.