Monty Don provides advice on watering houseplants
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When it comes to watering houseplants, experts recommend not sticking to a schedule or a routine, and checking the plant itself to see if it is dry or not. This is especially true for a peace lily, which is sensitive to being overwatered. One expert has shared how to water a peace lily correctly, and why owners shouldn’t be using tap water to do so.
Natalie Devereux, product specialist at Serenata Flowers, told Express.co.uk: “Peace lilies are considered easier than some other plants to look after in the winter when there are fewer sunlight hours, despite being a tropical plant, as they grow well in moderate to low lightning conditions.
“They will flower in spring if a minimum temperature of around 15 degrees celsius is maintained in the home throughout winter and their soil remains moist in a pot with good drainage.
“It’s worth remembering that they enjoy a humid environment, and humidity in the air significantly reduces in the home when the central heating is on, so we always recommend misting regularly to counteract this.”
Misting houseplants is a very simple but effective way of increasing their humidity levels.
It is recommended to use tepid, filtered water to spray the plants because some indoor plants are particularly sensitive to the chemicals found in tap water.
Misting the plants in the morning is ideal, giving them time to dry throughout the day when there is light.
The expert also shared how to water peace lilies properly, because like with many other indoor plants, they are susceptible to overwatering.
According to Natalie, owners should not be using tap water when watering a peace lily.
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The expert said: “Peace lilies don’t like being overwatered, so don’t water on a schedule as it is likely they will need less in the winter than the summer when the external conditions are warmer.
“Overwatering can lead to root rot which suffocates the plant.
“Where possible, use filtered water and avoid tap water which can contain fluoride, which peace lilies are sensitive to.
“In winter, bring the water to room temperature before watering as water too cold can shock the plants.”
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Owners of peace lilies should also wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and help prevent insect infestation.
Another houseplant which is sensitive to being overwatered is the moth orchid.
One trend circulating saw ice cubes being used to water orchids and Natalie has said this “controversial topic” can be harmful towards the plant.
She said: “Watering orchids with ice cubes is a controversial topic amongst growers.
“People for this method believe that it simplifies the watering routine, making it easier for beginners and prevent watering.
“But, plants, much like humans, have different watering needs depending on external factors.
“We always recommend using your senses and instinct rather than a method or routine.”
Overwatering is one of the main problems when it comes to looking after houseplants.
Too much water can cause root rot, while under watering can lead to limp plants and wilted leaves.
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