Watering your plants correctly is one of the most important aspects of plant care, yet it's also one of the most misunderstood. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little can cause your plant to wilt and struggle. The secret? Understanding how pot size affects your plant's water needs.
At Plant Studio, we believe that educated plant parents are successful plant parents. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you water your indoor and outdoor plants with confidence, especially in Dubai's unique climate.

Why Pot Size Matters
The size of your pot directly impacts how much water your plant needs and how quickly the soil dries out. Larger pots hold more soil, which retains more moisture for longer periods. Smaller pots dry out faster and require more frequent watering.
In Dubai's hot, dry climate, understanding this relationship becomes even more critical. Our intense heat can cause soil to dry out faster than in more temperate regions, making proper watering techniques essential for healthy plants.
General Watering Guidelines by Pot Size
Small Pots (10-15 cm diameter)
- Water Amount: 100-200 ml (approximately ½ to 1 cup)
- Frequency: Every 2-3 days in summer; every 4-5 days in winter
- Dubai Tip: Check soil daily during peak summer months (June-August)
Small pots are perfect for succulents, cacti, and small houseplants like pothos cuttings or baby spider plants. Because they have limited soil volume, they dry out quickly—especially on sunny windowsills or balconies.
Medium Pots (20-25 cm diameter)
- Water Amount: 300-500 ml (approximately 1½ to 2 cups)
- Frequency: Every 3-5 days in summer; once a week in winter
- Dubai Tip: Indoor plants in air-conditioned spaces may need less frequent watering
Medium pots are ideal for most common houseplants like snake plants, peace lilies, and medium-sized monsteras. These pots strike a good balance between moisture retention and drainage.
Large Pots (30-40 cm diameter)
- Water Amount: 1-2 liters
- Frequency: Once a week in summer; every 10-14 days in winter
- Dubai Tip: Outdoor plants may need twice-weekly watering during extreme heat
Large pots are perfect for statement plants like fiddle leaf figs, large palms, or bird of paradise. The increased soil volume means they retain moisture longer, but thorough watering is essential to reach all the roots.
Extra Large Pots (50+ cm diameter)
- Water Amount: 3-5 liters
- Frequency: Once a week in summer; every 2-3 weeks in winter
- Dubai Tip: Consider drip irrigation for outdoor planters this size
Extra large pots are typically used for outdoor plants, trees, or very large indoor specimens. These require significant water to saturate the soil properly, but they also provide excellent moisture buffering.
The Finger or Stick Test: Your Best Friend
Before watering any plant, regardless of pot size, use the finger test:
- Insert your finger or stick 2-3 cm into the soil
- If it feels dry, it's time to water
- If it feels moist, wait another day or two
This simple technique prevents overwatering and helps you understand your plant's individual needs.

Dubai-Specific Considerations
Indoor Plants
Air conditioning can create surprisingly dry conditions indoors. While this slows evaporation from the soil surface, it can also dry out plant leaves. Consider:
- Misting plants weekly
- Using humidity trays for tropical plants
- Grouping plants together to create microclimates
Outdoor Plants
Dubai's intense sun and heat mean outdoor plants need special attention:
- Water early morning (before 8 AM) or evening (after 6 PM)
- Avoid midday watering when evaporation is highest
- Use mulch to retain soil moisture
- Consider shade cloth during peak summer months
Balcony Plants
Balcony plants face unique challenges with reflected heat and wind:
- Check soil moisture daily during summer
- Choose pots with drainage holes
- Consider self-watering pots for convenience
Signs You're Watering Incorrectly
Overwatering:
- Yellow, drooping leaves
- Soft, mushy stems
- Fungus gnats
- Foul-smelling soil
Underwatering:
- Brown, crispy leaf edges
- Wilting despite moist soil
- Slow growth
- Leaves dropping off
Pro Tips for Perfect Watering
-
Always use pots with drainage holes – This prevents water from pooling at the bottom and causing root rot.
-
Water thoroughly – Don't just sprinkle water on top. Water until you see it draining from the bottom, ensuring all roots get moisture.
-
Use room temperature water – Cold water can shock plant roots, especially for tropical plants.
-
Adjust for seasons – Plants need less water during winter dormancy and more during active growth in spring and summer.
-
Consider your plant type – Succulents and cacti need less water than tropical plants like ferns and calatheas.
-
Quality over quantity – One thorough watering is better than several light sprinkles.
Special Considerations for Pet-Friendly Plants
If you're growing pet-friendly plants (perfect for cat and dog owners!), proper watering is even more important. Overwatered plants can develop mold or fungus that may be harmful if pets investigate. Check out our pet-friendly plant collection for safe options that are also easy to care for.
Plant Studio's Watering Wisdom
At Plant Studio, we believe plants are the angels of nature and deserve the best care. Whether you're a beginner plant parent or an experienced collector, understanding how pot size affects watering needs is fundamental to creating thriving green spaces in your Dubai home or office.
Remember: every plant is unique, and these guidelines are starting points. Observe your plants, learn their individual needs, and adjust accordingly. Your plants will tell you what they need—you just need to listen.
Ready to expand your plant collection? Browse our curated selection of indoor plants, outdoor plants, and home accessories at Plant Studio. We deliver throughout the UAE and offer expert advice to help your green friends thrive in Dubai's climate.
Need personalized plant care advice? Contact our team—we're here to help you create beautiful green spaces that flourish year-round.