Whether lush monstera, delicate alocasia or easy-care philodendrons - all these tropical houseplants have one thing in common: they come from regions with a constantly humid climate, where rain, humidity and water availability play a central role in their growth. But tropical does not mean "constantly wet" - on the contrary: waterlogging is one of the most common care mistakes with these plants.

In this article, we show you how to water your anthuriums, philodendrons, alocasia, monsteras and begonias correctly, what weather conditions prevail in their natural habitat and what you should pay attention to when watering indoors to avoid root rot, drought stress or growth problems.

🌦️ Natural habitat - weather conditions and water availability in the rainforest

In their natural environment, these plants grow in tropical rainforests in South and Central America, Southeast Asia and Africa. The climate there is warm, even and characterized by high humidity and frequent rainfall - however, the rain is distributed evenly throughout the year or concentrated in seasonal spurts.

Important: Despite frequent rainfall, the soil there is loose, permeable and highly aerated so that excess water drains away immediately. Plants absorb water from moist substrates, aerial roots and the air itself - they never stand in water, but in constantly slightly moist but well-aerated soil.

Examples from the Habitat:

• Anthuriums sit on tree trunks or moss cushions and absorb moisture via aerial roots and spaces between the bark.

• Philodendrons climb in rainy zones with high humidity, water drainage is always guaranteed.

• Alocasia grow on humus-rich forest soils that are evenly moist but never compacted.

• Monstera anchors itself with strong aerial roots and draws water both from the soil and through the air.

• Begonias grow in shady woodland areas with constant soil moisture, but sensitive roots that react quickly to too much water.

💧 How to water correctly - less is often more

A golden rule can be derived from the natural habitat: Moisture yes - wetness no! Your watering practice should therefore be based on the moisture requirement and the structure of the substrate.

✅ Pouring rules at a glance:

• Always use a permeable substrate that drains water quickly (e.g. with bark, perlite, coconut fibers)

• Only water when the substrate has dried out on the surface

• Water thoroughly until water emerges from the bottom of the pot - but do not leave any standing water in the planter!

• Use soft, room temperature water, preferably rainwater or filtered tap water (low limescale)

• In the growth phase (spring/summer): regularly, but with breaks between watering

• In the dormant phase (fall/winter): significantly less watering - many plants grow more slowly or not at all then

🌿 Individual plant watering requirements

Every plant has its own characteristics:

• Anthuriums & philodendrons: even, light moisture; water as soon as the top third of the substrate is dry

• Alocasia: very thirsty during the growing season, sensitive to drought - but sensitive to waterlogging

• Monstera: robust, can cope with short dry spells - better too little than too much

• Begonias: fine root system, sensitive to excess water - best to water from below or dose very carefully

⚠️ Avoid typical casting errors

• Avoid waterlogging: Use pots with drainage holes and ensure good water drainage.

• Do not water daily! Tropical plants do not need daily watering - it is better to check the substrate regularly.

• Do not water according to the calendar, but as required - if light consumption is low, e.g. in winter, one watering every 10-14 days is often sufficient.

🛒 What you should consider when watering - tips for customers

• ✅ Use substrates with a drainage effect and aeration so that irrigation water does not accumulate.

• ✅ Use low-lime water for lime-sensitive species such as begonias or alocasia.

• Pots with a water level indicator or moisture meter can be helpful - especially for larger plant collections.

• ✅ Watering aid products such as clay cones or self-watering systems make it easier to water when you are away.

🌟 Conclusion: Watering tropical plants correctly - gently, evenly and with feeling

The art of watering tropical houseplants lies in sensitivity. Neither drought stress nor waterlogging are natural conditions. Mastering the balance between even humidity and good aeration ensures healthy roots, strong leaves and stable plants.

➡️ Tip: Combine correct watering with a suitable substrate. substratethe right fertilizer and the right amount of light for the location - and your anthuriums, philodendrons, alocasia, monsteras and begonias will develop magnificently.

You can find out more about this in the Substrate section.