What Is The Best Water Temperature To Use When Watering…
Keely Asked
What is the best water temperature to use when watering (indoor) plants?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Keely in Massachusetts: When we water our indoor tropical plants it is best to use water that is room temperature. Water that is too hot or too cold can shock the plants and in extreme cases can be detrimental. Tap water is fine but some contains more fluoride than others and over time this can lead to fluoride toxicity. The most common symptom of fluoride toxicity is brown foliage on the tips of your plants. If this is an issue where you live you can use distilled or tap water that has been left out overnight, so the fluoride has had a chance to evaporate. As with all plant material it is always best to avoid watering the actual foliage. Water only the soil and make sure the containers have good drainage holes that are not clogged. Different plants require different levels of moisture and your watering routine will need to adjust depending on the time of year. During the winter months when the light levels are lower you can cut back on your watering. This will all depend on the temperature and humidity of your home but in general indoor plants should be watered every seven to 10 days.
