I’m a gardening guru and you’ve been watering your houseplants all wrong and it’s killing them – here’s the right way

Watering your houseplants seems easy enough, but turns out there’s a clever method you should use instead.

Many people overwater their plants without even realizing it using a pitcher or watering can, and it almost always kills them.

There might be an easier way to water your plants than the traditional way

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There might be an easier way to water your plants than the traditional wayPhoto credit: Getty

Has a plant ever started to wilt and turn yellow? It’s probably because you got a little carried away with the watering.

This is why the experts at The Ice Co recommend using ice cubes to water your houseplants.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, they shared five reasons why ice cubes are key to your plants thriving.

Prevents overhydration

It’s easy to overwater a plant – and there’s no turning back once it’s worked its way through the soil.

However, since ice cubes gradually melt, it’s easier to see exactly how many your plant needs.

It also gives your green friend a chance to slowly pick up the water.

It’s easy to do

You probably already have ice cubes in your freezer.

But if not, you can make your own using an ice cube tray or buy a bag from your local supermarket.

Start by embedding a few cubes in your plant’s soil, but remember that larger plants will need more.

Promotes flowering

The experts explained: “The temperature change caused by the ice actively promotes flowering – especially in plants such as orchids.”

This is because plants like orchids need to change temperature overnight for them to flower efficiently, according to the pros.

There is no mess

Spills are more likely if you use a pitcher or watering can as they can splatter around – but you won’t have that problem with ice cubes.

Not only that, you don’t have to deal with leaks when using ice cubes.

“Water doesn’t sink to the bottom as quickly, and if you’re worried about having trouble reaching your hanging baskets to water them, ice cubes eliminate the possibility of making a mess,” the pros said.

It’s easy for beginners

Unless you’re very knowledgeable about plants, it can be difficult to say exactly how much water to water, but a few ice cubes are a lot easier to measure and get right every time.

Even if you’re a planting pro, it’s good for kids and even neighbors who might water your plants when you go on vacation, the experts said.

“No measurements, temperature checks or real skills are required,” they added.

Emma James

Emma James is a USTimesPost U.S. News Reporter based in London. His focus is on U.S. politics and the environment. He has covered climate change extensively, as well as healthcare and crime. Emma James joined USTimesPost in 2023 from the Daily Express and previously worked for Chemist and Druggist and the Jewish Chronicle. He is a graduate of Cambridge University. Languages: English. You can get in touch with me by emailing emmajames@ustimespost.com.

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