Can water bowls effectively increase humidity?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Water bowls alone provide minor humidity increases of 1-3% during normal operation. The limited surface area of the water bowl will limit evaporation rates and have little to no functional impact on plant moisture needs. I measured changes with hygrometers before I realized there were better options available. It is important to understand realistic expectations first.
Optimize water bowl effectiveness using particular guidance. Put bowls close to a heat source (like a heating radiator) for more rapid evaporation. Use wide, shallow containers instead of deep containers. Change the water every two days to avoid stagnation and breeding of mosquitoes. You can also group the bowls with the other plants for a cumulative effect.
Placement Optimization
- Position near radiators or vents
- Elevate to plant canopy height
- Avoid direct sunlight locations
- Minimum 12" from plant bases
Container Selection
- Use wide shallow bowls (2" depth)
- Choose dark colors for heat absorption
- Ceramic beats plastic for evaporation
- Minimum 10" diameter per plant group
Complementary Techniques
- Combine with plant clustering
- Add pebble trays beneath pots
- Place near air-drying laundry
- Use with humidifier downwind
For optimal results, water bowls should be combined strategically. Cluster multiple bowls around groups of plants, or place some under a plant stand to catch the warmth rising from the stand. You can also increase the surface area by adding floating pieces of cork on top of the water surface. I place three ceramic bowls around my fiddle leaf fig tree during the winter months.
Keep track of results using hygrometers positioned at the level of foliage of your plants. Changes won't be readily apparent until 48 hours after you initiate the process. Reducing leaf curling is a sign of success. Use humidifiers if bowls are not effective for your particular plant species.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Tips for Indoor Plant Humidity
