I’m a beginner, and i currently have like 3 plants (the tree is my moms) and I don’t have a humidifier, could i use a spray bottle temporarily to keep the leaves from drying out? If so dose keeping the leaves wet and some water falling on the soil counts at watering? I don’t want to accidentally “over water it” if that makes sense
It would be completely fine to spray them! That's what I do to mine and they're good!
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In the short term, probably. Long-term, separating your plants does not actually increase the humidity for any substantial amount of time. If your leaves stay wet (from spraying) it may increase fungal and bacterial issues on your plants
2 likes That should say “spraying” not separating. And why can’t I edit my comments anymore?! 😬
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I’ve had better luck with water trays than misting. But brother made a significant difference for me. Everyone says to get a humidifier and I’m still fighting it, lol
0 likes Could I user a styrofoam plate in the meantime lol I don’t have a watering tray yet
0 likes I used large plastic plant saucers with pebbles and even lunch trays! The ones made just for plants are outrageous.
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You may not need to spray them if the humidity is about 45% or higher. Many plants do well indoors without taking action if you don’t live in an arid environment. Measure the humidity levels near your plants with a hygrometer. Humidity levels tend to be wet areas like kitchens and baths. I would recommend using a humidifier rather than misting.🪴🍀
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I mist all of my plants, bc I can’t have a humidifier, and my plants are fine. The if the soil gets get, I wouldn’t consider it watered, but it also depends on how much water is dripping.
0 likesI watered all my plants from the bottom so that I don’t get gnats… but I’m a clean freak so lol
0 likesNone of those have high humidity needs, so they don't need misting or a humidifier. Misting does not count as watering. To water, thoroughly wet the soil until it drains out the bottom. Make sure excess water drains out. For most plants, water about once a week (every three days for thirsty species like ferns, once or twice a month for desert species like cacti, adjust as needed for plants in the middle range.) The key to avoiding overwatering is appropriate soil. You want good drainage, especially at the bottom of the pot, and moisture retention that suits the plant (sphagnum holds the most water, then potting soil, then cactus soil, then orchid bark. Your tradescantias will like potting soil and the aloe will want a cactus mix.) Also use pots that fit (in general, 1-2 inches in diameter larger than the root ball. Slightly tighter for cacti and succulents)
2 likes Thank you! I find this very helpful
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To water, take the plant to the sink and water there. It’s ok if it to have a solid amount of water in one go, you just let it all drain out and then you can put the plant back to where it was. The key is making sure you don’t do it too often ie wait until the soil is dry or nearly dry before you water it again. The easiest way to check is to put your finger gently into the soil until about the second joint or use a chopstick and if it comes out moist, then leave it for another few days. You can also buy an inexpensive moisture meter to test. I also like the Sustee moisture meters which you can buy on Amazon. They stay in the pot with the plant permanently and will tell you when the soil is dry by their colour.
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