Martha Asks, We Answer: Fall Houseplant Watering

Yes, THAT Martha! Weeeee!

Now this was exciting to see:

How Did We Get Here?

I am still digesting how to answer that question, but the short answer is: a true adoration of houseplants and the joy they bring into our homes and lives! Sharing that on these interwebs has a fun way of opening doors to catch the eyes and ears of writers in well-lit places, and here we are! A feature as 'The Expert' on MarthaStewart.com (*cue the ugly cry...never thought I'd get to say that!).

Anyhoo, I love to share the BTS tidbits and add a little extra color when I can, so if you'd like to see the full responses I provided to editor, Michelle Maestro's, questions read on below!

This is the season we are keeping ourselves, and our houseplants happy, friends!

Fall Houseplant Watering Q&A

1.     So, first off, why should readers reduce watering in [the fall]? Why is it important?


Readers should reduce watering in October because October marks the end of ‘peak growing season’ for most houseplants (which commonly commences in April/May and bids us farewell around September/October). This means that as we enter a season of shorter days and less intense sunlight, we can expect our plants' growth to wane in robustness compared to the, often exponential, growth spurts we witness during the summer months. Our houseplants slow down and embrace the darker days of hibernation, using far less energy and, therefore, far less water. Reducing watering is critical to avoid one of the #1 plant heartbreaks I hear about this time of year: root rot, which happens when roots are left in cold, soggy soil. We don’t want that!

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2.     How can October or fall’s seasonal changes affect indoor plants? Why?


The biggest change is the measurable reduction in daylight hours. With less natural light, our friend photosynthesis slows down significantly. As temperatures drop, cold air settles in, and internal heat sources rise, another change to be cognizant of is your indoor air flow. Consider any potential window drafts and/or heating conundrums to protect the vitality of your plants. This might include sealing drafty windows and moving plants away from heat vents and fireplaces. When we turn on our heat, the air also becomes much drier, so stay tuned to your home’s humidity! The Mayo Clinic reports that the ideal relative humidity for health is between 30-50%, and the same goes for your plants. Do note that while low humidity can stress your houseplants (often in the form of brown, crispy tips), the answer is not to increase your watering routine. Remember, your plant is entering its resting phase and just might drown in the excess. Instead, consider investing in a humidifier, incorporating pebble trays, or grouping your plants to create a sustained microclimate.

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3.     What are some typical signs (either plant or weather signs) that it’s time to cut back on watering?


The most reliable sign starts with the soil itself. You'll notice that the soil stays damp for much longer than it did in the summer. For example, if you’re used to watering every 7 days, during this time of year you might check on your plants and find the soil is still quite moist. This is your cue to let go of your watering gusto and wait longer between check-ins. Another indicator can come directly from your houseplants. If you notice leaves are turning yellow, or (more concerning) stems are feeling mushy near the soil, this can be your stop sign to hit the watering brakes for this new season.

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4.     How should readers adjust their watering routine? Any special tips you have?


I am all about embracing the ebbs and flows of plant care. My single biggest tip (touched on in #3 above) is to replace rigid watering schedules with a 'check-in routine’ mentality. In my opinion, plant care should be a joyful journey, not a restrictive chore. Instead of watering every Saturday, simply opt for checking-in on your plants. Beginning with a manual soil "touch test" is my tried-and-true go-to: give your plant a drink only when the soil feels dry to the touch 1-3 inches down (dependent on pot size). Feeling unsure? A moisture meter is an excellent easy-care tool to confirm your hypothesis as well.

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5.     Also, which common houseplants need the biggest watering changes in October/fall? Why is that?

From my experience, succulents and cacti need the most drastic change. I have put many a succulent on the express train to plant heaven due to a heavy watering hand. With houseplants, there truly is such a thing as too much love! It even took me a while to ‘trust the process’, but in low fall light, many plants go fully dormant and may only need water once a month. Also, your fast-growing tropical plants that basked beautifully in the summer sun (think Monsteras, Pothos, and Philodendron varieties) usually see a significant reduction in watering required. Don’t be dismayed if the once rapid growth you experienced is coming to a halt; watering frequency is season dependent, so I recommend making the mental preparation to adjust.

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6.     What are some common mistakes to avoid in fall watering? Why are they so bad?

The biggest mistake is sticking to a summer watering schedule out of sheer habit. Houseplants simply can't (and surely won’t) use that much water anymore. This goes especially for plants that stepped out of the house and into the great outdoors. What’s the problem? The excess water starves the roots of oxygen and is a fast track to fungal issues and root rot, which are surefire signs of a near-death experience. Another mistake that even I have been guilty of is quite literally, loving your plants to death, by watering more simply because the air feels dry. Remember, plant growth is seasonal, and right now, they're entering a season of rest—and we should too.

To see what made the cut to the final article, read the full feature right here!

Here's to more healthy plants, and more dreams actualized.

Until next time!

xx your Concierge,

Shayla

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About The Author

Shayla Owodunni is the founder and Creative Director of The Plant Penthouse, a flora-inspired interiors and lifestyle brand where design, plants, and creativity converge to inspire connection and intention.

As a trusted voice in houseplant care, interiors, and styling, Shayla's expertise has been recognized nationally. From HGTV to Apartment Therapy, Shayla is a sought-after media contributor with a love for sharing practical, actionable advice on how to incorporate plants into daily life and cultivate beautiful, personal environments with purpose, presence, and panache.