From our perspective, the ideal watering regimen mimics the natural cycles of a warm, Mediterranean climate—our ancestral home. We thrive on a deep, thorough drink followed by a period where our roots can access oxygen in the drying soil. The goal is never constant, soggy moisture. Instead, water us deeply until water flows freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of our pot. This ensures the entire root ball is hydrated. Then, you must allow the top inch to two inches (about knuckle-deep) of soil to dry out completely before watering us again. This cycle promotes strong, healthy root growth as we seek out the remaining moisture, preventing us from sitting in water which leads to the fatal condition of root rot.
Our water needs are not static; they are a conversation with our environment. Several key factors dictate how often we need a drink:
Pot Size and Material: We planted in small clay pots dry out much faster than those in large plastic containers. Clay is porous and allows water to evaporate through the sides, while plastic retains moisture.
Sunlight and Temperature: On a hot, sunny windowsill or patio, we are actively photosynthesizing and transpiring, losing water rapidly. We will need far more frequent watering than our siblings growing in a cool, shady spot.
Seasonal Changes: In our peak growing season (spring and summer), we are voracious drinkers to support our vigorous growth and prolific blooming. As the days shorten in autumn and winter, we enter a period of dormancy. Our growth slows dramatically, and our water requirements drop significantly. Overwatering during this dormant period is a common and serious threat to our health.
We are quite communicative about our needs if you know how to read us. The most reliable method is the finger test mentioned above. For a more visual guide, observe our leaves. When we are perfectly hydrated, our stems are firm and our leaves are turgid and vibrant. When we are thirsty, our lower leaves may begin to yellow and eventually develop crispy, brown edges. They might also droop or wilt slightly. Please note, wilting can also be a sign of overwatering and root rot, so always check the soil moisture first. If the soil is soggy and we are wilting, you have a serious problem.
This point cannot be overstated from our root's-eye view: we demand excellent drainage. We absolutely abhor "wet feet." Our pot must have unobstructed drainage holes. The soil mix you provide us is equally vital; it must be light, airy, and well-draining. A standard potting mix amended with perlite, coarse sand, or vermiculite is ideal. This structure allows water to flow through easily, preventing it from pooling around our delicate root systems, which would quickly suffocate and rot without access to air.
