Top Watering vs. Bottom Watering - Which is best?

Top watering and bottom watering are two methods of watering plants, and each has its own set of benefits.

Top watering involves pouring water onto the surface of the soil, allowing it to soak into the soil and reach the roots of the plant. This method is ideal for plants that have shallow roots, as it allows the water to reach the roots quickly and efficiently. It is also useful for plants that require consistent moisture, as the water will evaporate from the surface of the soil, creating a humid environment for the plant.

Bottom watering, on the other hand, involves placing the plant in a tray of water or using a wick to draw water up to the roots of the plant. This method is ideal for plants that have deep roots, as it allows the water to reach the roots slowly and thoroughly. It is also useful for plants that prefer to be kept on the dry side, as the water will be absorbed gradually and will not create a humid environment.

One benefit of top watering is that it allows for better control over the amount of water that the plant receives. When top watering, it is easy to see when the soil is saturated and when it needs more water. In contrast, bottom watering can be more difficult to gauge, as the water may not be visible on the surface of the soil. This can lead to over-watering or under-watering, which can be detrimental to the health of the plant.

Another benefit of top watering is that it is less likely to lead to root rot. Root rot occurs when the roots of a plant are exposed to standing water for too long. This can happen when bottom watering, as the water may not be absorbed quickly enough, leading to the roots sitting in water for an extended period of time. Top watering, on the other hand, allows the water to be absorbed quickly, reducing the risk of root rot.

Bottom watering also has its own set of benefits. One of the main advantages is that it allows the plant to absorb water more slowly, which can be beneficial for certain types of plants. For example, succulents and cacti, which are native to arid climates, prefer to be kept on the dry side and may not be able to handle a lot of water at once. Bottom watering allows these plants to absorb water gradually, reducing the risk of over-watering.

Another benefit of bottom watering is that it can be more efficient. When bottom watering, the water is drawn up to the roots of the plant, which means that less water is needed overall. This can be helpful for plants that are sensitive to water and can be easily over-watered.

In conclusion, top watering and bottom watering are both effective methods of watering plants, and each has its own set of benefits. Top watering is ideal for plants with shallow roots and those that require consistent moisture, while bottom watering is better for plants with deep roots and those that prefer to be kept on the dry side. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the needs of the specific plant before choosing a method of watering.