How Much Is Too Much? The Beginner’s Guide to Watering Right

Because most houseplants don’t die from thirst - they drown.

Watering sounds easy, right? Just splash some water in every few days and you’re good? Not quite. Overwatering is the #1 reason houseplants meet their early end. And honestly, it’s not your fault. Every plant parent has stood over a wilting plant wondering: Wait, did I water too much… or too little?

Let’s clear up the mystery. This is your Studio Palasa no-fluff guide to watering with confidence because your plants deserve more than guesswork.

1. First, Know Thy Plant

Not all plants drink the same way. Some (like ferns and calatheas) love a daily mist and evenly moist soil. Others (like snake plants and hoyas) prefer to dry out completely before they sip again.

Rule of thumb:

▪️If the leaves are thick or succulent-like, water sparingly.

▪️If the leaves are thin, soft, or tropical-looking, water more regularly.

Still not sure? We’ll be adding care guides for popular plants soon, watch this space.

2. The Finger Test (Still Better Than Any App)

Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil.

• ▪️If it feels dry: Water.

• ▪️If it’s damp or cool: Wait.

• ▪️If it’s wet: Put the watering can down immediately.

Pro tip: This test works better than fancy moisture meters in most cases. Trust your sense of touch.

3. Drainage: Your Plant’s Emergency Exit

No drainage hole? Your plant is sitting in a puddle. This is why we always talk about the importance of drainage at Palasa.

• Our GRC planters come with one built-in drainage hole.

• Our FRP planters don’t come with one by default - but we’re happy to customize it for you. Just drop us a note at customize@palasa.co.in

Not ready to commit to drainage holes? Use a nursery pot inside the decorative planter and lift it out to water. Let it drain fully before putting it back in.

4. The “Bottom Watering” Trick

If your plant’s leaves are drooping but the top soil is still wet, it may be time for a different approach. Set the pot in a shallow bowl of water for 20–30 minutes. The roots will absorb only what they need from below, no risk of overwatering.

Ideal for: Peace lilies, calatheas, ferns.

5. Misters, Moisture & Myths

Do misters really help? Yes, but only in certain situations. Misting boosts humidity, not hydration.

Use a mister if:

• Your plant likes humidity (think calatheas, ferns, marantas)

• You live in an AC-heavy or dry climate

• You want to clean dust off delicate leaves

Don’t use a mister as a substitute for real watering.

6. Look for Signs: Your Plant Will Talk

Plants are drama queens in a good way. They’ll always tell you when something’s off.

Signs of Overwatering:

• Yellowing leaves

• Mushy stems

• Soil smells musty

• Fungus gnats buzzing around

Signs of Underwatering:

• Crispy brown tips

• Drooping, curling leaves

• Soil pulling away from the edges of the pot

Spot the signs early and adjust accordingly.

7. Watering Routine > Watering Schedule

Instead of watering on a rigid schedule (like every Sunday), get into the habit of checking your plants every few days. Plants’ needs change with seasons, light levels, and growth spurts.

In summer? They’ll drink more.
In winter? They’re practically on a diet.

Final Thought:

Watering right isn’t about a perfect schedule, it’s about connection. It’s the moment you pause, touch the soil, read the leaves, and respond with care. At Studio Palasa, we’re not just about beautiful planters, we’re here to help you build a rhythm with your plants. And once you learn to listen? That’s when the magic really begins.