Let’s talk about watering—because let’s be honest, it’s where most plant problems begin. If your leaves are yellowing, curling, crisping, or just plain falling off, it might not be a lighting issue or a pest.
It might just be… water. Or more specifically, how your plant is getting it (or not getting it).

So let’s break it down—in plain terms, for real plant people.

💦 Watering Is a Soil Issue First

Here’s the truth:
Most watering problems are really soil problems.
If your mix drains too fast or holds moisture too long, no amount of careful watering is going to save that root system. Your substrate has to match your conditions—and your habits.

That’s why I started mixing my own soil blends. (Because let’s be real: store-bought “indoor mix” is usually a gnat buffet.)

Whether you’re someone who forgets to water or someone who waters because your plant “looked thirsty,” your soil should give you wiggle room.

🚿 Soak That Sucker

When it’s time to water, don’t just drizzle the surface.
Water deeply. Thoroughly. All the way through the pot.

Water until you see it come out of the drainage holes.
Make sure the whole root ball gets saturated.
Then—and this part is key—let it drain completely.

This method prevents dry pockets, salt buildup, and the dreaded “moist on top, bone dry in the middle” problem.

That’s where the phrase “Drown 'em, then drain 'em” comes from. It’s not aggressive—it’s just the natural cycle your plant was built for.

📅 Stop Watering by the Calendar

This might ruffle a few leaves, but hear me out:
There is no magic number of days between waterings.

Water when your plant needs it—not when your planner says so. Conditions like light, pot size, humidity, and air flow affect how fast your soil dries out.

Learn to check instead of guess:

Stick your finger in (yes, really).
Lift the pot and feel the weight.
Look at the leaves—are they droopy or firm? Are the edges crispy?

Your plant will tell you more than your calendar ever could.

🧠 Watering for People With Busy Brains

Let’s be real—if you’ve got ADHD, work stress, or just a life with more chaos than calm, watering might not be your strong suit. That’s okay.

I’ve had the best success prepping multiple water bottles in advance, so when I finally do remember to water, I’m not delayed by mixing nutrients or waiting for tap water to dechlorinate. I can just grab a bottle and go.

Also? Self-watering pots and semi-hydro setups aren’t cheating. They’re tools. Use them.

✨ Use Watering Time Wisely

Watering is the perfect moment to check in with your plants.
Wipe down some leaves. Check for pests. Rotate a pot. Say “hey.”
You’ll notice changes earlier when it’s part of a habit, not just a chore.

🌿 Final Thoughts:

Watering is one of the most emotional parts of plant care. We want to nurture. We want to save. But sometimes, we just overdo it.

So take a breath. Check the soil.
And when it’s time?

Drown 'em, then drain 'em.
Soak it up, buttercup.
And water with confidence—not guilt.

Drown 'Em, Then Drain 'Em: How to Water Houseplants Without Killing Them