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Hand
Watering Methods
You realize the plant
needs water (that gasping noise it makes is unmistakable). Now,
how to deliver the precious liquid to its target? There are several
methods of doing so, each with good and bad points, and most experts
recommend a combination of at least the first two as the best approach:
Top Watering
This is very good at flushing away any excess fertilizer salts that
collect in the plant, but it can be an ineffective watering method.
If the soil pulls away from the sides of the pot, water will run
right through. Some fragile plants are also very susceptible to
damage when water gets on them. A much better method for plants
such as this is:
Bottom Watering
To ensure thorough watering, this method is best. Fill the saucer
that the pot rests on, letting the plant drink as much as it wants.
Remember to empty the saucer after 30 minutes to avoid letting the
plant set too long in water, which can lead to root rot.
Total Immersion
A bit drastic, but it does insure that water reaches the entire
plant. Place the plant into a sink or container so that water is
one inch over the top of the pot. After all the bubbles have disappeared,
take the pot out and let it drip dry.
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