How Putting Toothpicks In Your Houseplants Can Help With Watering
Sometimes the best plant care hacks are the simplest ones. And yes, something as basic as a toothpick can make watering your houseplants way easier. If you’ve ever struggled with knowing when or how much to water, this little trick can take out all the guesswork. It’s not fancy, but it’s super useful, and it just might keep your plants from suffering in silence.
It’s All About the Soil Below the Surface
All gardeners know it can be tough to tell what’s going on under the top layer of potting soil. It might look dry on top but still be wet an inch down. But, toothpicks can help you figure that out. Just stick one a few inches into the soil and leave it for a few minutes. When you pull it out, the moisture level will be clear. If the toothpick is damp? You’re good. Bone dry? Time to water.
Avoiding the Overwatering Trap
Overwatering is one of the easiest ways to kill a houseplant. And it’s usually not on purpose, it’s just hard to know what’s happening under the dirt. The toothpick test gives you a better read on moisture without having to guess. It’s especially handy for pots that don’t have good drainage or for plants that are a bit more dramatic (looking at you, fiddle leaf figs).
Great for New Plant Parents
If you’re new to the world of houseplants, you might find yourself second-guessing everything. The toothpick trick is an easy way to better understand your plant’s needs while you’re still learning. No expensive moisture meter or plant app required. It’s low-tech and beginner-friendly. Once you start using it, you’ll probably wish you had heard about it way sooner.
It Even Works for Small Pots and Succulents
Toothpicks are tiny enough to check moisture in small pots, which is where a lot of people run into watering trouble. Succulents especially don’t like to sit in soggy soil, and are also often planted in small pots. This method gives you a way to quickly check water levels without disturbing the plant. And let’s be honest, you probably already have toothpicks tucked in a kitchen drawer anyway.
Make It Part of Your Routine
Try checking your houseplants with a toothpick once a week or whenever you’re thinking about watering. After a while, you’ll start to learn your plants’ rhythm. Some will surprise you by how long they stay moist, while others dry out faster than you’d probably expect. This little tool helps you develop a better routine without overthinking it.
Cleaner Than Digging With Your Finger
We’ve all done the finger test, poking into the dirt to see if it’s still damp. But that can compact the soil and make a mess, especially with indoor houseplants. A toothpick is neater, cleaner, and more precise. Plus, you won’t end up with dirt under your nails. It’s a small upgrade, but it makes houseplant care feel a little easier and cleaner.
Related Articles
- Keep Houseplants Thriving in Winter With These Special Care Tips
- 5 Daily Habits That Make Your Home Smell Bad
- Try This Simple Trick Before You Toss That Dead Houseplant
You don’t need fancy gear or a green thumb to keep your houseplants happy. Sometimes, it’s just about paying closer attention, and a toothpick is a surprisingly handy tool for that. It’s simple, it’s cheap, and it helps you avoid the two biggest watering mistakes most gardeners make: going too long between waterings or watering too soon. You’ll be surprised by the big difference a little toothpick can make.
Bliss Donahue-Power
