I worked at Kew in the glasshouses for 18 years, I think this is the best container watering video I’ve seen. Almost word for word what we used to teach the horticulture students. Well done! One more tip - if you grow in terracotta - we used to tap the pots with the back side of our secateurs. The resulting sound will be different depending on how much moisture is in the pot. A dry pot will ring like a bell 😊
Wow thank you! Yes I use the chop stick method and it works ! The tapping of terra cotta is a cool new tool, my plants that in terra cotta are snake plants! My plants love me 😅
TED is DEAD. This is so much better than any modern TED talk could ever be on the subject. The original Technology Entertainment Design conference and TED2 was great, but they are firmly rooted in the 80s. What is called TED now is just a bad imitation.
Jen Since88 I took it deep. And what you wrote (probably unknowingly) could be taken as a backhanded compliment. TED quickly turned into a self aggrandizing prol fest of fumes and bad theatre.
Helge Frisenette Summer appreciated my comment. That’s all that matters to me, as I thoroughly enjoy her content, and I have learned a lot from her. On the other hand, your commentary has been intrusive, unpleasant, condescending and EXTRA (and I believe that was absolutely your intention). So with that said... Good day.
Summer I’m so proud of you! Your botanical expertise and storytelling shows you’ve put a lot of work into studying. You’ve come a long way as a teacher in the past year. So refreshing to see someone build upon their fame and become a genuine educator for their community.
@@LeeDfined It's pretty much unavoidable without anti-fungal treatments or constantly replacing your soil. If someone claims to never have lost a plant to root rot, then they obviously haven't had many plants.
I often go by the weight of the pot when watering😊 After a while of "getting to know the plant"😅, I start to get a feel for when the plant is substantially lighter verses heavy with water & that helps a lot.
I love the emphasis on just observing your plants. I've been doing something a little odd lately and potting up almost everything in glass containers (usually with no drainage) which allows me to literally "observe" the roots and soil/substrate. No more guess work if you can actually see the water.
Don't forget to feel the weight of the pot! Relatively heavy means saturated, light means it may need water! We like the rapid test moisture meter that doesn't need batteries
I got a water meter recently. Does t have an on/off, just a dial (analogue version). I found this to be extremely useful. What I though was dry, turned out to be wet. Especially plants with lots of deep roots.
We get so much humidity with excessive heat here in Central Florida Zone 9b, so it can be so tough at times. Observing your plants is so important and I love to watch them everyday! Thanks for the awesome info💖
You're my favorite teacher. I have learned so much from your videos. Much of what I learned from you has been so helpful in growing my plants. Thank you beautiful plant lady! ❤!
Yes, this is a great video about watering. Living in a humid, hot climate, watering is tricky. Most videos here DO say to check the top 2 inches, but it makes more sense to test further down.
Great tips! So useful for me as I have some unique areas and the standard watering instructions are rarely helpful. One thing I would add would be ‘air flow’ as I have to water much more when the windows are open near the plants and they are getting more air passing over the soil.
Watering seems so simple but it's not. Thanks for this video, I'm newer to houseplants and had them all winter so I was able to observe them and I've gotten to know how they look when they're sending out the message 'I need water. Also, I've learned that two different plants in the same pot can vary greatly on their water consumption.
Thanks Summer I am from Malaysia and have been following you a lot. Hope you will continue the effort to spread plants loving ideas in the States and also help also to support Greta and also Ecosia
I’m so glad you mentioned the checking deeper into the soil for water ! Too many ppl say 2 inches and it’s a lie. You can kill your plant just doing that little. Some soil dries slowly and the bottom half can still be too wet ! I know this by experience I bought a plant that the top half was suuuper dry but when I repotted the bottom was super wet
Almost every youtuber that I watch says that mess and it's irritating. Another thing that gets me is the generic saying of "water once every 7 to 10 days". Most youtubers fail to mention that the kind of pots we're using makes a huge difference.
Summer you’re my botanical guru! I already got your fashion book and I’m getting your plant book soon! Thank you for making plant care so fun! I also love how you ask everyone to be introspective about what kind of plant parent they really are to determine what kind of plant they should get. That alone should save a lot of unnecessary plant deaths!
Thank you for this video Summer! I just purchased a moisture meter probe and it is the best tool to help curb my impulses while I’m in overwatering rehab.
A moisture meter helps a TON. I know a lot of people preach against them, but honestly as a new plant parent they teach you a lot. It helps you understand the standing water table in your pots, and to monitor it. It also teaches you how different soils and different pots dry out. I love mine. Plus, you get extra soil aeration!
These videos are awesome. I enjoy so much watching these and have learned so much. But I also love the relaxation that I feel watching you working with and showing your plants😍. I have also loved your field trip edition videos. Thank you girl!
I always enjoy your videos and I'm so grateful for the knowledge you have of plants!🐞 I love all the different beauty they have to offer and I always love to observe my plants because I learn so much watching each grow🌸 Thank you so much summer
Two things: 1. At time 14:08 you say that’s when you know that your plant is done watering- I have to dispute that (kindly) because of the roots are really root bound, then the water will seep through really well. Or if the soil is hydrophobic, then it will find one path down to that hole and not get the rest, so I’d say to bottom water it then to make sure it all gets enough water. 2. To check if it needs water or not- sometimes I lift my pot and if it’s really light, I know it’s time. But if it’s heavy still, it’s wet!! Also you could check the hole at the bottom and put your finger in and feel if it’s moist or dry :) Thank you for your video tho!
wow thank you for these videos. this video and the next one about watering are the most informative i've seen. i especially appreciate that you *show* the what and how, rather than just talk about it. thanks again, from a complete beginner!
Hi Summer! How are you? Another great video, thanks! Can you please do a video on why some plants go into shock after repotting and what to do to save them? I repotted all my house plants and 3 of them are in shock. Thank you again, Gerry 😎
HPE Teacher This happens with my plants too so often after repotting. It's so unnerving and I wish I knew what exactly I might potentially be doing wrong...or maybe I'm repotting correctly and the stress is to be expected...and does that look like yellowing leaves or...?? Anywho, I'd love that video as well and this one on watering was so more than perfect and I learned so much!! 😊
Thanks Len. I haven't seen any videos on the topic. I have a lot of plants and only three were affected. Mine have droopy leaves and look lifeless. Soil has moisture, so I am not watering them. I hope they come back to life soon. Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend! Gerry 😎
A video about this would b great. ..I need to put my peace lily into a bigger pot, but I killed the last one this way...and because I've managed to keep this one alive now for 8 months, I'm really nervous about repotting. They should totally have a plant tamagochi ...see if u can keep the tamagochi alive b4 u graduate to a real live plant 😆
Thank you for the reply! I so agree! A lot of us have had the same thing happen to me. I have contacted many plant presenters on UA-cam and hopefully one of them will answer this question. 😎
I always checked only the top few cm of the soil and I was watering all the time. Then I noticed some (actually a lot) fungus gnats and when I repotted some plants I also noticed tons of mould in the bottom of the soil. Moral of the story: I am now 100times more careful with watering 😂 Great video, came just in time for me and my plants 🌱❤️
Hey, Summer! I have an analog moisture meter that I've trusted for years now. It has a 1 to 4 scale on its readout, but I usually don't pay as much attention to that as I do to simply where the needle falls on the spectrum from dry to wet on the meter face. It has never failed me, doesn't need batteries, and is minimally invasive like the tools you showed in your video. Highly recommend!
And i thought it is only me who spends this much time in his garden! Glad to find someone out there with the same amount of passion and knowledge. Would like to see you in TedxTalk Videos. You are truly know your plants and how to take care of them! Subscriber for life!!
@Summer Rayne Oakes, This makes so much sense. Im so glad you BUSTED that watering tip. I always said it didn't make sense bcus the roots are not in top 2". Thx Sumner.
Your videos have been such an inspiration for me to start my own plant collection! I recently moved to another city and having a room full of plants makes me feel so comfortable and happy even though I'm far from home! Thanks
I use a water meter that has two prongs and measures light, ph, and moisture levels. Love it. You’re actually not supposed to dip the prongs in straight up liquid, not sure why... but it works quite well paired up with all of the tips in the video. I also make sure to stick the prong in multiple different spots of the soil because I have found that some areas in the pot will say it is dry and some areas are still moist.
Thanks for the tips. I had to dip mine in pure water b/c it doesn't work otherwise, which is part of the reason why I asked for better reccos of moisture meters. I don't find this one I have so reliable!
Another great video! I feel that series that cover getting Back To Basics are vital, even for those of us who have had plants for years. It's a great way to realise you may have slipped into bad habits and to pick up new tips!
Oof yeah i am aware and maybe a little naive 😅 Looking into himidifiers as we speak, trying everyting in my power to make this work because he is so so so pretty!
Excellent collection of helpful information. However, I do find your take on the "top two inches" extremely interesting. I find it depends on the specific plant. Most of our beginner houseplants will benefit from your approach of waiting for a more complete dryness throughout the plant. This might lead to collapse of more delicate/advanced plants that require a more moist medium. Plants like certain pilea, certain ficus, New World carnivorous species, pellionia, "ferns", true ferns & fittonia will not respond well to waiting. They may not even recover from the wilt. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on bottom watering! 😊👍 Lastly, thanks for existing Summer Rayne you beautiful human! 👩🐔 You personify the beauty of science and the free exchange of ideas where we all learn from each other.👍
That was soooo helpful. It's amazing how little useful information is available about how to water plants. I started out watering based on top 2 ... but then after checking with a moisture meter and finding that indeed the bottom was wet I started relying more on the moisture meter for some just the weight. I like the idea of using a chop stick instead of the clunky moisture meter that I have. Thank you Summer for explaining why its important and how to take care of the roots ... Root Care! I have some plants that like to stay moist but my Spider plants, Pothos and Aloe Vera like to dry out between waterings.
I have been through so many sites and videos trying to find information about the correct amount of water to give a peace lily! I've learned alot but I didn't get what I was looking for until I came across your video. ...so..much appreciated ☺☺☺
Monotropa uniflora! Thank you! I was in northern Ontario and found a bunch of these beauties and snapped a photo but couldn't find out what they were. Now I know!
I used a 50/50 potting mix & coarse sand for my Haworthias, and surprisingly this year I had lots of root rot although they were rarely watered. After a while, I realized that cuttings I rooted in thimble-sized bonsai and terra-cota pots with same soil have outlived the mother plants from which I took cuttings.
I like this ep very much. Most of us killed plants due to overwatering most of the time. I have a collection of orchids and they are very sensitive with the moisture in the media. If I don't pay much attention about the condition of the media, I would damage the orchid plant very easy. Thanks for your video.
Summer.... I highly recommend that everyone, not just beginners... Go to Lowe's and get yourself a three-in-one moisture meter! It not only gives you an arrow moisture meter reading but it also tells you how much light the plant is receiving, where you have it and it also gives you the pH of the soil and it is only $10!!! Plus on the back of the package, it gives you a number to water the plant at and it's very very informative and so easy to just look at the number! The prongs are down with the roots and I know it's not a one-size-fits-all type thing but it definitely takes out a lot of those other variables you spoke of, lighting, temperature, the type of pot it's in, etcetera
the best thought out and most easiest to understand video ever made for watering plants. I agree with everything youve said and it would be so much easier for me now whenever a friend of mine ask how often they should water their plants, I'd just direct them to this video tysm summer :-) a huge fan from singapore btw
Thank you, Summer. You are a wealth of knowledge! Please take us on a tour of your "typical" watering process. I have over 200 plants but have recently added Hoyas to the mix. Beyond the typical Carnosas, Pubicalix andWayetii (sp?), I am finding it difficult to know when to water them. The very airy mix is what throws me off. It feels dry all the time.
Remember that Hoya don't mind a periodic drying out. And the H. carnosa in particular needs an extended dry period in spring in order to promote blooming too.
I typically pick up the pot to check its weight. If they seem unnaturally light then it needs some water. If it's nice and heavy I leave it be. Maybe some plants, depending on the soil, need to sit a few minutes in the water to fully absorb the water needed, especially when the soil was "bonedry" beforehand. So I mostly let it sit like 5-10 minutes and then drain the water from the basin. Quite some plants also benefit from soaking rater then watering from above. If someone is new to Orchids or other epiphytic plants, I'd recommend soaking the whole Orchid pot for 15 minutes in handwarm water. This way the roots can really soak themselves full. After that it should be drained very well, and only be watered if the pot feels light again. I really enjoy this videos, I have learned so much :). I would really enjoy a video on how to spot a plant lacking special nutrients, or having pests. Or a video about special mixtures and recipes of soil for different types of plants. I am currently going with Topsoil, charcoal, clay balls, some mineral powder (no Idea how it's called in english) and coco Fibre, in different variations for my outdoor plants. But also wanted to get my hands on some perlite
Most useful for me starting off is using a clear, perforated inner pot and a decorative outer pot. Then you can easily see when even the deep soil is dry, and air can reach the deeper soil easier. Also, it is expensive but some potting substrates like kanuma change color when dry or wet. Kanuma turns distinctly yellow when wet, and almost turns bone white when dry. Again, easier to tell when dry. Kanuma is a great acidic, porous, clay like rock. It aerates the soii, retains moisture, and is soft enough for roots to penetrate unlike say pumice. It's just super expensive since it is mostly imported from bonsai dealers in Japan. Push comes to shove, err on the side of dry rather than wet. Root rot from overwatering kills so many plants. More perlite-like material lets the soil air out more, and generally it is safer to have a soil that dries out faster and just water more frequently. This allows more frequent brief periods of dryness to discourage mold, and water flushings to purge fertilizer salts. The more inorganic substrate the more you might want to consider fertilizer if you have a flowering plant or are trying to make your plant bigger. Going for a more organic and water retaining soil, great if you frequently go on vacations, can then be done once you have gotten the basic gist of watering.
I have found that observing is key. We bought a water, Ph and sunlight stick from Lowe's for $9.99 and it has helped so much. I have never used the sunlight detector but the water and Ph balance options are gma great help. I have also learned that if you let the plant sit in the drain tray after the water runs out for about 15-20 min, the plant will suck up the water that it needs and if any is left over, use it for another plant of like species (not all solis are alike and what may be ok for some, aren't for others) or throw it down the drain. 😁 But definitely OBSERVATION! is key with or without a water reader.
New fan here and a green thumb in training. I have learned so much from your videos! Thank you! I have bought a moisture meter and it suggests to stick it through between the main stem and the container edge about 2/3 the way down. Should I start putting it down to the bottom? Makes much more sense that way according to your lessons!
Thanks for the tip about observing your plants. Seems like common sense, and yet I’ve found that it’s something I absolutely have to and love to do given all of the variables in my indoor garden setup/ “experiment.” I’m gonna watch the how-to-water your plants video next, because I’ve got to know how you keep water from getting all over the floor and the walls... 🙃
I have a moisture meter that also measures light and ph. I only use it for moisture, but it's very accurate so far (6 months). The brand is Jellas, and I bought it through Amazon for around $10. Nice video, as always. :)
Wonderful informative video. Thank you Summer. When I first started growing plants I was someone that over watered my plants, so because of that I killed a few, the ones that survived didn't grow very much they were just hanging in there. Now I'm so much more careful and like you said observe my plants, which is so true, they each have their own uniqueness and so far I haven't killed any. I like the chopstick testing method, the moisture meter I have isn't always that accurate, so sometimes old school works better. I'm also trying to plant in pots that have drainage holes, and if they don't have a drainage hole then I'm super careful and mindful to not over water them.
ya, you just have to observe since there are so many variables. It also helps to know the natural conditions a plant likes. ie, ferns don't do well in dry offices even tho the lighting is perfect
One of the factors that I learnt from my own experience is ventilation. I live in Malaysia and my succulents rotted when i moved them into my bedroom after watered them. Then I found out it was because the room temperature gets too high and the ventilation was really poor which caused my plants to rot. T_T Btw, cant wait to learn more on your next video! God bless.
Very glad you like it. the top is organic cotton knit by Linda Loudermilk. The pants are a linen-cotton mix by one of my favorite local designers-a design duo that lives up the street called Kai D.; and the handcrafted necklaces are made by the Tuareg people of Africa alongside a wonderful French designer whom I met at the Ethical Fashion Show in Paris over a decade ago named Ombre Claire.
New to indoor plants and Just found your vids. Very helpful and especially your other 101 on watering. From what I've observed and perhaps wrongly assumed is that the 2 inch down method is because you don't want most plants to thoroughly dry out. Hence watering when top 2 inches dry means the plant doesn't fully dry out. Could you please clarify. Kind regards Martin
I bought a 3-1 meter from local box store. Measures moisture, pH and light. I actually only use it for light and it's been invaluable. Countless times I think "this plant probably needs water", but meter reads a 7 out of 10 and I wait a week. Think it cost $10-$12.
I worked at Kew in the glasshouses for 18 years, I think this is the best container watering video I’ve seen. Almost word for word what we used to teach the horticulture students. Well done! One more tip - if you grow in terracotta - we used to tap the pots with the back side of our secateurs. The resulting sound will be different depending on how much moisture is in the pot. A dry pot will ring like a bell 😊
Best job ever
Wow thank you! Yes I use the chop stick method and it works ! The tapping of terra cotta is a cool new tool, my plants that in terra cotta are snake plants!
My plants love me 😅
You need to do a TED talk on plants. Seriously.
haha that's so sweet.
TED is DEAD. This is so much better than any modern TED talk could ever be on the subject. The original Technology Entertainment Design conference and TED2 was great, but they are firmly rooted in the 80s.
What is called TED now is just a bad imitation.
Helge Frisenette Uhhh... it wasn’t that deep. Just complimenting her on her awesome presentation skills.
Jen Since88 I took it deep. And what you wrote (probably unknowingly) could be taken as a backhanded compliment.
TED quickly turned into a self aggrandizing prol fest of fumes and bad theatre.
Helge Frisenette Summer appreciated my comment. That’s all that matters to me, as I thoroughly enjoy her content, and I have learned a lot from her.
On the other hand, your commentary has been intrusive, unpleasant, condescending and EXTRA (and I believe that was absolutely your intention). So with that said... Good day.
Summer I’m so proud of you! Your botanical expertise and storytelling shows you’ve put a lot of work into studying. You’ve come a long way as a teacher in the past year. So refreshing to see someone build upon their fame and become a genuine educator for their community.
this was super timely. i spent about 3 hours last night dealing with a major root rot incident because i "over loved" my plants. thank you.
We've all been there. I still over water some of my Sansevieria and have to repot and cut leaves in order to save it.
Earth Boy Sun And Rain. I water my sanseveria like a succulent sometimes LOL it’s always seemed pretty happy 🤷♀️
evacherie did you over water once or was it an accumulation of overwatering?
I purposefully planted my Sanseviria in a succulent mix so its harder to overwater.
@@LeeDfined It's pretty much unavoidable without anti-fungal treatments or constantly replacing your soil. If someone claims to never have lost a plant to root rot, then they obviously haven't had many plants.
I often go by the weight of the pot when watering😊 After a while of "getting to know the plant"😅, I start to get a feel for when the plant is substantially lighter verses heavy with water & that helps a lot.
GisForGangsta this is so true! You can tell by the weight! I usually only do this for my succulents because there are so OK to be completely dry 👌
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Excellent and thorough houseplant care!
In a mission to keep 'em moist - all methods are good.
Ah, some white suculent hanging there...
I love the emphasis on just observing your plants. I've been doing something a little odd lately and potting up almost everything in glass containers (usually with no drainage) which allows me to literally "observe" the roots and soil/substrate. No more guess work if you can actually see the water.
Oh I've been wanting to try that for a month now but I can't find glass pots, could you please tell me where you found them or what did you use?
Don't forget to feel the weight of the pot! Relatively heavy means saturated, light means it may need water!
We like the rapid test moisture meter that doesn't need batteries
I got a water meter recently. Does t have an on/off, just a dial (analogue version). I found this to be extremely useful. What I though was dry, turned out to be wet. Especially plants with lots of deep roots.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
@@summerrayneoakes can plants grower in water. If you have a starter plant when should you transfer it to soil?. Please respond. Thanks!
The best thing I ever bought for my plants was a soil moisture thermometer. Looking, feeling and noticing is also important. Thanks for the video!!
We get so much humidity with excessive heat here in Central Florida Zone 9b, so it can be so tough at times. Observing your plants is so important and I love to watch them everyday! Thanks for the awesome info💖
You're my favorite teacher. I have learned so much from your videos. Much of what I learned from you has been so helpful in growing my plants. Thank you beautiful plant lady! ❤!
Yes, this is a great video about watering. Living in a humid, hot climate, watering is tricky. Most videos here DO say to check the top 2 inches, but it makes more sense to test further down.
This is so helpful, thank you! I love the message that is really about getting to know our plants and our home environment.
I could literally hear you speak for days and never get bored, you are so informed, educated and well-spoken. ❣️
Sending this over to my sister who recently got into houseplants. Best video on watering I've seen!
This is by far the best video I’ve seen on this topic. Excellent. Thank you!
Great tips! So useful for me as I have some unique areas and the standard watering instructions are rarely helpful. One thing I would add would be ‘air flow’ as I have to water much more when the windows are open near the plants and they are getting more air passing over the soil.
Watering seems so simple but it's not. Thanks for this video, I'm newer to houseplants and had them all winter so I was able to observe them and I've gotten to know how they look when they're sending out the message 'I need water. Also, I've learned that two different plants in the same pot can vary greatly on their water consumption.
Can I just comment on the fact that plant loving people are, like the host here, pretty much open, articulate and bright and healthy individuals.
Thanks Summer I am from Malaysia and have been following you a lot. Hope you will continue the effort to spread plants loving ideas in the States and also help also to support Greta and also Ecosia
I’m so glad you mentioned the checking deeper into the soil for water ! Too many ppl say 2 inches and it’s a lie. You can kill your plant just doing that little. Some soil dries slowly and the bottom half can still be too wet ! I know this by experience I bought a plant that the top half was suuuper dry but when I repotted the bottom was super wet
I’m glad you debunked that “just feel the top two inches of soil” myth. That one has become quite prolific 😅
Yeeesh I killed 3 plants doing this
YES! This is why I like my moisture meter, it helps me monitor the standing water at the bottom.
@@MMandGlitter sounds like your pot didn't have drainage holes?
I agree. ..I've killed more plants than I can remember that way 😆
Almost every youtuber that I watch says that mess and it's irritating. Another thing that gets me is the generic saying of "water once every 7 to 10 days". Most youtubers fail to mention that the kind of pots we're using makes a huge difference.
Summer you’re my botanical guru! I already got your fashion book and I’m getting your plant book soon! Thank you for making plant care so fun! I also love how you ask everyone to be introspective about what kind of plant parent they really are to determine what kind of plant they should get. That alone should save a lot of unnecessary plant deaths!
Thank you for this video Summer! I just purchased a moisture meter probe and it is the best tool to help curb my impulses while I’m in overwatering rehab.
I was about to water my plants today after i saw your video and i checked and they didnt need watering, thank you
That chopstick trick and soil sleuth are a game changer!
A moisture meter helps a TON. I know a lot of people preach against them, but honestly as a new plant parent they teach you a lot. It helps you understand the standing water table in your pots, and to monitor it. It also teaches you how different soils and different pots dry out. I love mine. Plus, you get extra soil aeration!
These videos are awesome. I enjoy so much watching these and have learned so much. But I also love the relaxation that I feel watching you working with and showing your plants😍. I have also loved your field trip edition videos. Thank you girl!
Noticed you use simple clamps to hange plants vertically. GREAT idea! TY
Your instructions are very specific and easy to understand, thank you so much!
I always enjoy your videos and I'm so grateful for the knowledge you have of plants!🐞 I love all the different beauty they have to offer and I always love to observe my plants because I learn so much watching each grow🌸 Thank you so much summer
This series is giving me life. Please keep up with the nice work. 😉
Glad you're enjoying!
Two things: 1. At time 14:08 you say that’s when you know that your plant is done watering- I have to dispute that (kindly) because of the roots are really root bound, then the water will seep through really well. Or if the soil is hydrophobic, then it will find one path down to that hole and not get the rest, so I’d say to bottom water it then to make sure it all gets enough water.
2. To check if it needs water or not- sometimes I lift my pot and if it’s really light, I know it’s time. But if it’s heavy still, it’s wet!! Also you could check the hole at the bottom and put your finger in and feel if it’s moist or dry :) Thank you for your video tho!
You are a beautiful soul Summer! Back to basics is great; with even deeper knowledge.
wow thank you for these videos. this video and the next one about watering are the most informative i've seen. i especially appreciate that you *show* the what and how, rather than just talk about it. thanks again, from a complete beginner!
🌱💕🌞MY FAVE PLANT MOM❤️🌿
She brings her A game to every video!!!
Hi Summer! How are you?
Another great video, thanks!
Can you please do a video on why some plants go into shock after repotting and what to do to save them? I repotted all my house plants and 3 of them are in shock.
Thank you again,
Gerry
😎
HPE Teacher This happens with my plants too so often after repotting. It's so unnerving and I wish I knew what exactly I might potentially be doing wrong...or maybe I'm repotting correctly and the stress is to be expected...and does that look like yellowing leaves or...?? Anywho, I'd love that video as well and this one on watering was so more than perfect and I learned so much!! 😊
Thanks Len. I haven't seen any videos on the topic. I have a lot of plants and only three were affected. Mine have droopy leaves and look lifeless. Soil has moisture, so I am not watering them. I hope they come back to life soon.
Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend!
Gerry
😎
A video about this would b great. ..I need to put my peace lily into a bigger pot, but I killed the last one this way...and because I've managed to keep this one alive now for 8 months, I'm really nervous about repotting. They should totally have a plant tamagochi ...see if u can keep the tamagochi alive b4 u graduate to a real live plant 😆
Thank you for the reply! I so agree! A lot of us have had the same thing happen to me. I have contacted many plant presenters on UA-cam and hopefully one of them will answer this question.
😎
I always checked only the top few cm of the soil and I was watering all the time. Then I noticed some (actually a lot) fungus gnats and when I repotted some plants I also noticed tons of mould in the bottom of the soil. Moral of the story: I am now 100times more careful with watering 😂
Great video, came just in time for me and my plants 🌱❤️
Good case in point!
Hey, Summer!
I have an analog moisture meter that I've trusted for years now. It has a 1 to 4 scale on its readout, but I usually don't pay as much attention to that as I do to simply where the needle falls on the spectrum from dry to wet on the meter face. It has never failed me, doesn't need batteries, and is minimally invasive like the tools you showed in your video. Highly recommend!
Brand make model source
And i thought it is only me who spends this much time in his garden! Glad to find someone out there with the same amount of passion and knowledge. Would like to see you in TedxTalk Videos. You are truly know your plants and how to take care of them! Subscriber for life!!
@Summer Rayne Oakes, This makes so much sense. Im so glad you BUSTED that watering tip. I always said it didn't make sense bcus the roots are not in top 2". Thx Sumner.
Very glad you're enjoying.
Your videos have been such an inspiration for me to start my own plant collection! I recently moved to another city and having a room full of plants makes me feel so comfortable and happy even though I'm far from home! Thanks
I use a water meter that has two prongs and measures light, ph, and moisture levels. Love it. You’re actually not supposed to dip the prongs in straight up liquid, not sure why... but it works quite well paired up with all of the tips in the video. I also make sure to stick the prong in multiple different spots of the soil because I have found that some areas in the pot will say it is dry and some areas are still moist.
Thanks for the tips. I had to dip mine in pure water b/c it doesn't work otherwise, which is part of the reason why I asked for better reccos of moisture meters. I don't find this one I have so reliable!
I am a new house plant mama and just ran into this video. It was so wonderful thank you! Wanted to ask what do you think about plant food?
Thanks for this video it came right when I needed it I just bought my first house plant and I need all the advice !😊
Another great video! I feel that series that cover getting Back To Basics are vital, even for those of us who have had plants for years. It's a great way to realise you may have slipped into bad habits and to pick up new tips!
We all can so easily slip into bad habits!!
I am from Philippines Miss Rayne. I super dooper love all your videos..
the chopstick idea is brilliant, thank you!
Thank you, on behalf of my existing and future plants! Just got myself a calathea zebrina so the plant game is getting real. Hope to keep him happy 🤞
Tough one to keep happy!
Oof yeah i am aware and maybe a little naive 😅 Looking into himidifiers as we speak, trying everyting in my power to make this work because he is so so so pretty!
Great video! Thanks for sharing your knowledge about plants and how to take care of them.
It’s impressive the video quality and how informative it is!!!
Thank you!
Excellent collection of helpful information. However, I do find your take on the "top two inches" extremely interesting. I find it depends on the specific plant. Most of our beginner houseplants will benefit from your approach of waiting for a more complete dryness throughout the plant. This might lead to collapse of more delicate/advanced plants that require a more moist medium. Plants like certain pilea, certain ficus, New World carnivorous species, pellionia, "ferns", true ferns & fittonia will not respond well to waiting. They may not even recover from the wilt. I can't wait to hear your thoughts on bottom watering! 😊👍 Lastly, thanks for existing Summer Rayne you beautiful human! 👩🐔 You personify the beauty of science and the free exchange of ideas where we all learn from each other.👍
The best 'how to' water houseplants on youtube!! so practical! Thank you, Summer....you are the best.....♥ from kuala lumpur, malaysia
That was soooo helpful. It's amazing how little useful information is available about how to water plants.
I started out watering based on top 2 ... but then after checking with a moisture meter and finding that indeed the bottom was wet I started relying more on the moisture meter for some just the weight. I like the idea of using a chop stick instead of the clunky moisture meter that I have.
Thank you Summer for explaining why its important and how to take care of the roots ... Root Care!
I have some plants that like to stay moist but my Spider plants, Pothos and Aloe Vera like to dry out between waterings.
I have been through so many sites and videos trying to find information about the correct amount of water to give a peace lily! I've learned alot but I didn't get what I was looking for until I came across your video. ...so..much appreciated ☺☺☺
A warm late summer made me over-confident in the watering of my plant.
Then it happened.. root rot.
I was never the same person after that.
Monotropa uniflora! Thank you! I was in northern Ontario and found a bunch of these beauties and snapped a photo but couldn't find out what they were. Now I know!
Yes, they're pretty amazing. I used to find them in the woods behind my house as a kid. I have stories of them in the Houseplant Masterclass.
There are several meters that are double pronged and measure moisture, ph and light and i LOVE them.
Which brand do you use?
Great! Thank you so much. Do feel free to share what you use.
This is so helpful to alot of people. Thanks for the video and explanation
super interesting. love how you took a "simple question" and blew it wayyy up great vid
You and your plants are so beautiful
Love to watch your videos
I used a 50/50 potting mix & coarse sand for my Haworthias, and surprisingly this year I had lots of root rot although they were rarely watered. After a while, I realized that cuttings I rooted in thimble-sized bonsai and terra-cota pots with same soil have outlived the mother plants from which I took cuttings.
That's a good point about bottom watering that I'd never thought of!
You are a wealth of information! I always learn so much from your videos!
very pleased!
I like this ep very much. Most of us killed plants due to overwatering most of the time. I have a collection of orchids and they are very sensitive with the moisture in the media. If I don't pay much attention about the condition of the media, I would damage the orchid plant very easy. Thanks for your video.
Summer.... I highly recommend that everyone, not just beginners... Go to Lowe's and get yourself a three-in-one moisture meter! It not only gives you an arrow moisture meter reading but it also tells you how much light the plant is receiving, where you have it and it also gives you the pH of the soil and it is only $10!!! Plus on the back of the package, it gives you a number to water the plant at and it's very very informative and so easy to just look at the number! The prongs are down with the roots and I know it's not a one-size-fits-all type thing but it definitely takes out a lot of those other variables you spoke of, lighting, temperature, the type of pot it's in, etcetera
the best thought out and most easiest to understand video ever made for watering plants. I agree with everything youve said and it would be so much easier for me now whenever a friend of mine ask how often they should water their plants, I'd just direct them to this video tysm summer :-) a huge fan from singapore btw
Thank you, Summer. You are a wealth of knowledge! Please take us on a tour of your "typical" watering process. I have over 200 plants but have recently added Hoyas to the mix. Beyond the typical Carnosas, Pubicalix andWayetii (sp?), I am finding it difficult to know when to water them. The very airy mix is what throws me off. It feels dry all the time.
Remember that Hoya don't mind a periodic drying out. And the H. carnosa in particular needs an extended dry period in spring in order to promote blooming too.
Love your videos, Summer.... Really useful information about plants and how to take care of them.
I typically pick up the pot to check its weight. If they seem unnaturally light then it needs some water. If it's nice and heavy I leave it be. Maybe some plants, depending on the soil, need to sit a few minutes in the water to fully absorb the water needed, especially when the soil was "bonedry" beforehand. So I mostly let it sit like 5-10 minutes and then drain the water from the basin. Quite some plants also benefit from soaking rater then watering from above. If someone is new to Orchids or other epiphytic plants, I'd recommend soaking the whole Orchid pot for 15 minutes in handwarm water. This way the roots can really soak themselves full. After that it should be drained very well, and only be watered if the pot feels light again.
I really enjoy this videos, I have learned so much :). I would really enjoy a video on how to spot a plant lacking special nutrients, or having pests. Or a video about special mixtures and recipes of soil for different types of plants. I am currently going with Topsoil, charcoal, clay balls, some mineral powder (no Idea how it's called in english) and coco Fibre, in different variations for my outdoor plants. But also wanted to get my hands on some perlite
Most useful for me starting off is using a clear, perforated inner pot and a decorative outer pot. Then you can easily see when even the deep soil is dry, and air can reach the deeper soil easier.
Also, it is expensive but some potting substrates like kanuma change color when dry or wet.
Kanuma turns distinctly yellow when wet, and almost turns bone white when dry. Again, easier to tell when dry. Kanuma is a great acidic, porous, clay like rock. It aerates the soii, retains moisture, and is soft enough for roots to penetrate unlike say pumice. It's just super expensive since it is mostly imported from bonsai dealers in Japan.
Push comes to shove, err on the side of dry rather than wet. Root rot from overwatering kills so many plants.
More perlite-like material lets the soil air out more, and generally it is safer to have a soil that dries out faster and just water more frequently. This allows more frequent brief periods of dryness to discourage mold, and water flushings to purge fertilizer salts.
The more inorganic substrate the more you might want to consider fertilizer if you have a flowering plant or are trying to make your plant bigger.
Going for a more organic and water retaining soil, great if you frequently go on vacations, can then be done once you have gotten the basic gist of watering.
I just saw this video and it was extremely helpful since I am new to this. Thank you 😊
I have found that observing is key. We bought a water, Ph and sunlight stick from Lowe's for $9.99 and it has helped so much. I have never used the sunlight detector but the water and Ph balance options are gma great help. I have also learned that if you let the plant sit in the drain tray after the water runs out for about 15-20 min, the plant will suck up the water that it needs and if any is left over, use it for another plant of like species (not all solis are alike and what may be ok for some, aren't for others) or throw it down the drain. 😁 But definitely OBSERVATION! is key with or without a water reader.
A soil meter with a meter needle seems to work best and be the most accurate for me!
Thank you so much for this video. This helps me a lot to take better care of my plants!
This is very educational!! Thank you!!
Thank you so much for sharing vídeos everyday😊🌱💚💖🙋
New fan here and a green thumb in training. I have learned so much from your videos! Thank you! I have bought a moisture meter and it suggests to stick it through between the main stem and the container edge about 2/3 the way down. Should I start putting it down to the bottom? Makes much more sense that way according to your lessons!
Thank you! I'm a new plant parent and this was so helpful!!
So pleased.
Thanks for the tip about observing your plants. Seems like common sense, and yet I’ve found that it’s something I absolutely have to and love to do given all of the variables in my indoor garden setup/ “experiment.” I’m gonna watch the how-to-water your plants video next, because I’ve got to know how you keep water from getting all over the floor and the walls... 🙃
You are a delight ! Great job ! Greetingd from Montreal !
Love your Vids but please more Kippee! :)
I have a moisture meter that also measures light and ph. I only use it for moisture, but it's very accurate so far (6 months). The brand is Jellas, and I bought it through Amazon for around $10. Nice video, as always. :)
Wonderful informative video. Thank you Summer. When I first started growing plants I was someone that over watered my plants, so because of that I killed a few, the ones that survived didn't grow very much they were just hanging in there. Now I'm so much more careful and like you said observe my plants, which is so true, they each have their own uniqueness and so far I haven't killed any. I like the chopstick testing method, the moisture meter I have isn't always that accurate, so sometimes old school works better. I'm also trying to plant in pots that have drainage holes, and if they don't have a drainage hole then I'm super careful and mindful to not over water them.
Very pleased you enjoyed and can share your own stories on watering.
@@summerrayneoakes Thank you , I just love you and your channel, I'm so grateful I found you, now I enjoy the journey.
Really fantastic advice. Thank you so much for sharing.
Will be looking forwards to the video in bottom watering. Love from Scotland.
This was a great class! Can’t wait for the bottom watering/how to properly water your plants vid 😍
so much passion and speak so eloquently about plants ...I am in love with you now :)
I bought a $9.99 "Dr. Meter" Moisture Meter from Amazon. I like it. It seems to be accurate. It's so easy to read and understand.
ya, you just have to observe since there are so many variables. It also helps to know the natural conditions a plant likes. ie, ferns don't do well in dry offices even tho the lighting is perfect
I love your videos. I learn so much each time. That soil sleuth is really cool. Thanks, Summer! ❤️
One of the factors that I learnt from my own experience is ventilation. I live in Malaysia and my succulents rotted when i moved them into my bedroom after watered them. Then I found out it was because the room temperature gets too high and the ventilation was really poor which caused my plants to rot. T_T
Btw, cant wait to learn more on your next video! God bless.
*air circulation
LOVE your outfit in this video and your hair looks amazing with the curls 😍 Great video as always 😘
Very glad you like it. the top is organic cotton knit by Linda Loudermilk. The pants are a linen-cotton mix by one of my favorite local designers-a design duo that lives up the street called Kai D.; and the handcrafted necklaces are made by the Tuareg people of Africa alongside a wonderful French designer whom I met at the Ethical Fashion Show in Paris over a decade ago named Ombre Claire.
I was loving on that top as well!
Love your plants
Thanks for sharing
New to indoor plants and Just found your vids. Very helpful and especially your other 101 on watering. From what I've observed and perhaps wrongly assumed is that the 2 inch down method is because you don't want most plants to thoroughly dry out. Hence watering when top 2 inches dry means the plant doesn't fully dry out. Could you please clarify. Kind regards Martin
You and SerpaDesign should do a terrarium episode together!!!
Thanks for the recco! I'll have to check them out.
Bien présenté / bien détaillé.
Merci a vous
Love this video! Very helpful and informative🌿🌱
I bought a 3-1 meter from local box store. Measures moisture, pH and light. I actually only use it for light and it's been invaluable. Countless times I think "this plant probably needs water", but meter reads a 7 out of 10 and I wait a week. Think it cost $10-$12.