How often I need to water the plants

[GrowForLife]

I'm trying to learn everything before I start grow and I'm a little confused about watering..
When I need to water the plants? I need to do it every day or maybe 2 days..?
In the flowering time in need to water the plant only on the light time, right?

 

[_tessarecting]

Observation...then rhythm...is the top inch or two dry...is it light when lifted...

 

[stoned-trout]

they make moisture meters for the growing challenged..they are cheap too...yeehaw

 

[Lester Beans]

Every environment is different so there is not a set rule for watering frequency.

A well draining soil is key to avoid over watering. Water the plant until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Get an idea of how heavy the container is when freshly watered.

Now observe the plant. When it starts to droop and the pot is light it is time to water.

Now you know how long in between waterings. But keep in mind as the plant matures it will drink more so to speak.

Most of growing is observing the plants and learning their language. Patience is a must for a good grower.

Good luck!

 

[TerpeneDream]

More perlite = more often

Less perlite = less often

 

[coconutcurry]

I assume you plan to grow in soil. If so, do it this way: Water your plants slowly until a bit water flows out of the bottom of the pot. Maybe 5% - 10% of the whole water should come out of the pot. The soil should be completely soaken with water. If the soil is dry when you water, you need patience. Water slowly a bit just to moisten the soil, wait some hours and water again until the soil is completely soaken and can't take no water anymore.

Now take up the pot just to feel how heavy your pot is now. Feel the weight. Then wait some days until your plants get really thirsty. When the lower leaves start to hang down and get flabby, then feel the weight of the pot again. How light it is now.
(Watch your plants frequently when you do this. If the plants are that thirsty you can't wait anymore until next day. You have to water soon. But don't worry. The flabby leaves get firm again very fast when you water. Within minutes.)

Next time you know how light your pot feels when your plants get really thirsty. Don't wait that long in future again. Water them short before. When you start to grow your plants, feel the weight of the pots every day to get a feeling for their weight.

How often you have to water the plants depends on the size of the pots, temperature, airflow, light, how big the plant is, how fast the plant is growing in that moment, the strain etc... Generally I can recommend to use pots as big as reasonable possible. The bigger the pot the less problems you will have.

The right watering is important, because one will get problems with the roots if watering too much. Don't forget: A big part of your plant is under the soil.
Beginners often water too much. This is one of the most frequently mistakes. On the other hand: Don't let the plants get really thirsty. Just the first time to check the weight of the pot and to find the right point. Being really thirsty is stress for the plants and is near to damages.

 

[aridbud]

Yep, I ditto or second everyone's input. You'll get in the groove- your plants have a way of telling you everything is all right with the world....or not. Listen/watch!

Good luck in 2016!

 

[coconutcurry]

I forgot: Water them in the 'morning'.