20+ Plants · Season-Adjusted · Light & Pot Size
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Finger test — stick finger 1 inch in soil | If dry, water. If moist, wait. |
| Water less in winter | Plants grow slower, use less water |
| Drainage holes are essential | Standing water causes root rot (#1 killer) |
| Water until it drains out bottom | Ensures all roots get moisture |
| Morning watering is best | Leaves dry during day, prevents fungus |
| Sign | Over-Watering | Under-Watering |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves | Yellow, mushy, dropping | Brown, crispy, curling |
| Soil | Soggy, smells moldy | Bone dry, pulling from pot edges |
| Stems | Soft, mushy base | Wilting, limp |
| Roots | Brown, slimy (root rot) | Dry, brittle |
| Growth | Stunted, fungus gnats | Stunted, leaves dropping |