Cheers, Amigo!

How much water does a plant need?

Every Amigo has its own water requirements. Of course, a plant that originates in the desert needs less water than a plant from the jungle. The water requirements of houseplants can be divided into 3 categories.

Category 1: Viva la Humedad! (Long live the humidity!)
The soil should always be slightly moist (not too wet).
Tip: Please note that not every houseplant that needs constantly moist soil consumes a lot of water!
Category 2: Menos es mas (less is more):
The soil may be temporarily dry.
Category 3: Poco Agua (Little Water):
The soil may be dry for a long time.

Cat. 1. Viva El Agua!

The soil should always be slightly moist

Houseplants in this category include the Alocasia Zebrina and the Ficus. Although the palm often grows in countries where it rarely rains, it can survive there well because its deep roots reach down to the groundwater. There are also palms, such as the Lucuala Grandis, which have relatively few roots because it gets a lot of water from the air with its leaves. This palm therefore does not need as much water, but the soil should be constantly moist.

Cat. 2. Menos es Mas!

The soil may be temporarily dry.

These plants include the Aglaonema. With these plants, it is important that the soil dries out briefly from time to time. You should note that the soil at the top of the pot may be dry, while the soil deeper in the pot is still moist. You can check this by sticking a finger deep into the soil. You should only water when the soil is completely dry.

Cat. 3. Poca Agua

The soil may be dry for a long time.

Sansiveria, Yucca and cacti are plants that can live for some time without water. In winter, it is best to let the soil dry out completely before watering the plant again.

The finger test!

Check your Amigo's soil regularly. Many species are best watered when the top layer of soil has dried out. The finger test has proven to be effective: stick a finger about one to two centimeters deep into the soil. If it is completely dry, your Amigo will definitely be able to handle a good drink.

In general:

To avoid excess water, you should check the saucers 15 to 30 minutes after watering: Is water collecting in them? To prevent waterlogging and thus root rot, you should pour the water away immediately!

If you are unsure about the amount of water, you can water carefully at first and then observe the plant's reaction. Do the leaves stand up straight? Does the plant seem stronger? In general, it is better to water the Amigos at longer intervals than to water them more often and in small doses.