How to Tell if Ruby Necklace Plant Needs Watering?

Introduction

The Ruby Necklace plant, also known as Othonna Capensis, is a popular houseplant known for its trailing stems and beautiful ruby-red leaves. Like any other plant, it requires proper care and attention to thrive. One crucial aspect of its care is watering. Knowing when to water your Ruby Necklace plant is essential to prevent overwatering or underwatering, both of which can be detrimental to its health. In this article, we will discuss the signs that indicate when your Ruby Necklace plant needs watering.

1. Check the Soil Moisture

The most reliable way to determine if your Ruby Necklace plant needs watering is by checking the soil moisture level. Stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil near the plant’s base. If the soil feels dry at this depth, it’s an indication that the plant requires watering. However, if the soil feels moist or wet, it’s best to hold off watering until it dries out a bit.

2. Observe Leaf Appearance

The appearance of your Ruby Necklace plant’s leaves can provide valuable clues about its watering needs. When the plant is adequately hydrated, the leaves will appear plump, vibrant, and healthy. On the other hand, if the leaves start to droop or appear dull and limp, it could be a sign of underwatering.

Additionally, if you notice that the leaves are turning yellow or brown and becoming crispy, it may indicate overwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, so it’s crucial to adjust your watering routine accordingly.

3. Monitor Growth Rate

Another way to gauge your Ruby Necklace plant’s watering requirements is by monitoring its growth rate. If you notice that the plant’s growth has slowed down significantly or that it has stopped growing altogether, it could be a sign of underwatering.

Plants need water to carry out essential metabolic processes, and a lack of water can hinder their growth. However, it’s important not to confuse slowed growth with natural growth cycles or environmental factors such as low light conditions.

4. Lift the Pot

Another method to check if your Ruby Necklace plant requires watering is by lifting its pot. If the pot feels noticeably lighter than usual, it indicates that the plant has used up most of the water in the soil, and watering is necessary.

However, this method may require some experience and familiarity with your plant’s weight when adequately watered. It’s advisable to lift the pot regularly when you know the plant is well-watered to establish a baseline for comparison.

5. Consider Environmental Factors

Apart from observing physical signs in your Ruby Necklace plant, it’s essential to consider environmental factors that can affect its watering needs. Factors such as temperature, humidity levels, and air circulation can influence how quickly the soil dries out.

During hot summer months or if your plant is placed near a heating source, it may require more frequent watering. In contrast, during cooler winter months or if your plant is in a cooler area of your home, it may need less frequent watering.

6. Use a Moisture Meter

If you prefer a more scientific approach to determine your Ruby Necklace plant’s watering needs, you can invest in a moisture meter. A moisture meter measures the moisture content in the soil and provides an accurate reading of whether it’s time to water or not.

To use a moisture meter, insert the probe into the soil near the plant’s base and check the reading on the device. Most moisture meters have a scale indicating dry, moist, or wet soil conditions, making it easy for you to determine if watering is necessary.

Conclusion

Knowing when to water your Ruby Necklace plant is crucial for its overall health and longevity. By checking the soil moisture, observing leaf appearance, monitoring growth rate, lifting the pot, considering environmental factors, or using a moisture meter, you can accurately determine when your plant needs watering.

Remember that overwatering is as harmful as underwatering, so it’s important to strike a balance and provide your Ruby Necklace plant with the right amount of water. With proper care and attention, your Ruby Necklace plant will continue to thrive and enhance the beauty of your indoor space.