Which of the following practices is critical for maintaining potted plants?

Watering based on pot weight is a critical practice for maintaining potted plants because it provides a simple and effective method for assessing when to water. When the pot is dry, it becomes significantly lighter, indicating that the plants need water. This approach helps prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and also ensures that the plants receive the necessary moisture for healthy growth.

Understanding the weight of the pot helps you gauge the moisture content in the soil. By regularly checking the pot weight, you can develop a consistent watering schedule tailored to the specific needs of your plants, which may vary based on their species, size, and environmental conditions.

In contrast, ignoring soil type can result in poor growth conditions as different plants thrive in different kinds of soil. Frequent use of chemical fertilizers can lead to nutrient imbalances, while over-fertilizing can harm plants by burning their roots and inhibiting growth, rather than promoting it.