Water is essential for most of the plant's life processes: photosynthesis, nutrient transport, and temperature regulation. In the case of cannabis, which is a dynamically growing and demanding plant, proper watering directly affects health, growth rate, and the quality and quantity of flowers.
Both excessive and too infrequent watering are common mistakes among novice growers. Understanding how to recognize the signals sent by the plant allows timely reactions and avoids more serious problems.
Symptoms of overwatering cannabis plants
1. Drooping, limp leaves
Contrary to appearances, limp leaves are not always a sign of water deficiency. In the case of overwatering, the leaves may be soft, drooping, sometimes with yellowing at the edges.
2. Slow growth or its cessation
Overwatering causes root oxygen deprivation, which significantly hinders nutrient uptake and inhibits plant development.
3. Root rot
Without proper drainage and excessive moisture, roots begin to rot, leading to browning, unpleasant odor, and often irreversible damage.
4. Mold and fungal development
Constant moisture promotes pathogen development – especially during the flowering phase when buds are dense and susceptible to infections.
Symptoms of underwatering cannabis
1. Curled, dry leaves
The plant's leaves become stiff, dull, curl upwards, or brown at the tips.
2. Rapid wilting
A plant deprived of water quickly loses turgor, becomes weakened, and its structure deforms.
3. Slow flower maturation
Water deficiency negatively affects flower formation, causing underdevelopment and lower resin production.
4. Problems with nutrient uptake
Without adequate water, mineral salts are not transported to plant tissues, leading to micro and macroelement deficiency symptoms.
How to check if the plant needs water?
1. Finger test
The simplest method is to insert a finger about 3–5 cm into the substrate. If the soil is dry, it's time to water. If still moist – wait.
2. Pot weight
Over time, a grower learns to "weigh" whether the pot contains water. A light pot indicates that the substrate has dried out.
3. Moisture meter
For more precise measurements, specialized soil moisture meters can be used. This is especially useful with a larger number of plants.
4. Plant behavior
The plant communicates its needs – it's worth observing changes in posture, leaf color, and flexibility.
How often to water indoor cannabis?
There is no universal rule, as water demand depends on:
growth stage (seedling, vegetation, flowering),
pot size and root system,
type of substrate (soil, coco, hydroponics),
air temperature and humidity,
light intensity,
ventilation and air circulation.
On average, during the vegetative phase, plants are watered every 2–3 days, while during the flowering period – more often, even daily with high demand.
Most common watering mistakes
Watering according to a schedule instead of plant needs.
Not every plant has identical needs. Each should be observed individually.Lack of water drainage.
Pots must have holes so that excess water can escape and not cause rot.Watering with small portions.
It's better to water less frequently but more abundantly – so that water reaches the lower parts of the substrate.Too cold water.
Water should be at room temperature (approx. 20–22°C). Cold can cause shock and inhibit growth.
Final tips
Use water with the appropriate pH (6.0–6.5 for soil cultivation).
Avoid tap water with high chlorine content – it's better to use filtered or settled water.
Don't be afraid to give the plant a "dry day" if you're unsure whether it needs water.
Monitor grow room conditions – the warmer and drier, the faster the plant uses water.
Summary
Understanding the water needs of cannabis is key to healthy, lush cultivation and abundant harvests. Regularly observing plants, testing substrate moisture, and avoiding automatic watering schemes helps avoid many problems. Water is not just hydration – it's a tool controlling the entire growth rhythm of your plant. Remember: it's better to water consciously than frequently.
