Bottom watering
/ˈbɑtəm ˈwɔtərɪŋ/
Definition
Bottom watering refers to a watering technique in which a pot is placed in shallow water so moisture moves upward through the drainage holes and potting mix by capillary action. The roots and growing medium absorb water from below rather than from the soil surface. It applies to container-grown plants and differs from top watering, where water is poured onto the surface and drains downward.
Use in Gardening
- Cleaner leaf surfaces: It keeps water off foliage, which can reduce spotting on fuzzy-leaved plants such as African violets and lowers the chance of moisture sitting in crowded crowns.
- More even root uptake: Moisture moves upward through the potting mix by capillary action, helping roots access water throughout the root ball when the mix is still open and absorbent.
- Limits and cautions: It works poorly in compacted, hydrophobic, or very coarse mixes, and pots should not sit in water too long because waterlogged roots can lose oxygen.
- Useful for seedlings and small pots: It is often used for seed trays and small containers because the surface stays relatively undisturbed, which helps prevent dislodging tiny seeds or delicate stems.
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