Friday is plant day in our home. Every Friday, I check all our houseplants, water those that need it, remove yellowing leaves and make sure everything is healthy and looking beautiful.
It's such a simple routine, but it means I never have to wonder when I last watered a plant or worry that I've forgotten one.
How Friday Became Plant Day
When we decided to bring more green plants into our home, my sister gave me a piece of advice that has stayed with me.
She suggested choosing one specific day every week to take care of all the plants.
"Which day would work for you?" she asked.
For me, the answer was Friday.
And ever since, Friday has been the day when I give our plants their weekly attention.
Not Every Plant Needs Water Every Week
All our houseplants grow either in hydroculture or directly in water.
Every Friday, I go around the house and check them one by one.
For the hydroculture plants, I look at the water-level indicators. Some need more water, while others still have plenty.
If a plant doesn't need water, I simply leave it alone. If its water level is getting low, I add an appropriate amount.
I also check the leaves, remove anything that has turned brown or yellow and look for signs of pests.
For plants growing directly in water, I check their containers and refresh the water when necessary to keep them clean and discourage algae growth.
The important distinction is this: Friday is the day I check every plant, not necessarily the day I water every plant.
That way, I can give each plant the attention it actually needs instead of automatically adding water to everything.
No More Forgotten Plants
Without a routine, it's surprisingly easy to forget a plant, especially when you have several in different rooms.
You might water the ones you see every day while overlooking one in a corner or on a windowsill.
Or perhaps you can't remember when you last watered a particular plant and end up giving it too much.
By checking every plant on the same day each week, I avoid much of that uncertainty.
Of course, a plant may occasionally need attention between Fridays, particularly during very hot weather. But having a regular inspection day makes it much less likely that something will go unnoticed.
Choose Your Own Plant Day
It doesn't matter whether you choose Monday, Wednesday or Sunday. What matters is choosing a day that fits naturally into your week.
Once it becomes a habit, you no longer have to remind yourself constantly to check your plants.
And caring for them becomes a pleasant little weekly routine rather than another task on your mental to-do list.
For me, Friday is plant day. What's yours?