Houseplant lovers are obsessing over 'life-changing' new watering hack

If you're a fan of houseplants and are looking for a way to give them an extra hydration boost, then an expert has shared a simple trick that could save you time

Nurturing an ever-growing collection of houseplants can become a bit overwhelming, but experts have now divulged a timesaving trick for watering your green friends. Whether you're planning a holiday or simply in over your head with your botanical buddies, bathing your plants might prove to be an ingenious solution.

Richa Kedia, a houseplant expert at Simplify Plants, has recommended that most plants actually thrive best when drenched every so often instead of frequent light waterings. Describing the optimal soaking method to Livingetc, Kedia advised: "To soak a plant, place it in a sink or basin and fill it with water until the soil is submerged. Let the plant sit until the soil is saturated, typically 10-15 minutes, then drain completely before returning it to its usual spot."

For those with copious potted pals, she suggests taking advantage of the bathtub for mass watering sessions. "Perform this trick when the soil feels dry to the touch, which could be every 1-2 weeks, depending on the plant and the environment," she added.

The expert has highlighted the benefits of plant soaking, stating it allows water to reach the entire root system for "deep hydration". She explained: "It can be more effective than regular watering for some plants because it helps prevent dry spots in the soil and ensures that water isn't just running down the sides of the pot.", reports the Mirror.

Jack Lewis, CEO and Founder of plant care brand Sowvital, concurred on the advantages of this method. "I've observed that soaking is especially effective for ensuring deep hydration, reaching the roots where it's needed most," he noted. However, he cautioned that soaking isn't suitable for all plants.

"While soaking houseplants can be beneficial, particularly for those that thrive in more humid conditions, I often lean towards regular watering with a watering can as a more controlled and consistent method," he added. "When it comes to soaking, it's something that should be done with consideration – perhaps once a month or less frequently, depending on the plant's natural habitat and individual needs. The key, I believe, is to find a balance – using regular watering for plants that are more suited to it, and occasional soaking for plants that need a deeper hydration boost. This combination approach often yields the best results, promoting healthier growth and resilience in plants."