Houseplant owners sometimes struggle with their watering habits. Overwatering is a tendency that can lead to root rot, fungus gnats, and general deterioration of plants. But it doesn't have to be! Proper watering techniques can go a long way to ensure success.
1. If a plant is overwatered, it will likely develop yellow or brown limp, droopy leaves as opposed to dry, crispy leaves (which are a sign of too little water). Wilting leaves combined with wet soil usually mean that root rot has set in and the roots can no longer absorb water. 2.
General Rule: Most houseplants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Watering every 1-2 weeks is typical, but this can vary. Seasonal Changes: During the growing season (spring and summer), plants generally need more water. In the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce watering frequency.
The good news is that most plants will bounce back between 7-14 days if they're given proper care (which includes rehydration). If this isn't possible because major damage was done or little healthy root system exists then expect about 2 weeks until improvement can be seen.
You can gently take the plant out of its original pot and place the root ball on top of a layer of newspaper. The newspaper will help to absorb excess water. You may need to change the newspapers a few times until it has removed as much of the water as possible.
A yellow leaf has lost its chlorophyll (pigment) and it can't turn green again even after you correct the problem. Don't worry, if the plant regains its health, it's possible that new leaves will fill in during the next growing season. Growing plants is always a matter of patience.
If you have small planters to fill, try lining their bases with old newspaper instead. The newspaper will allow excess water to drain freely away through the drainage holes, but prevent the compost from being flushed out.
How to check for root rot. The main signs to look out for are: yellowing, wilting leaves, wet soil that isn't drying, black, wet roots, quickly declining health, and stunted growth.
For overwatered plants, repotting may be necessary. Check roots for rot. Trim damaged roots, remove soggy soil, and repot in fresh soil.
The best time to water indoor plants is during the morning hours, before the sunshine is in full force. Watering in the morning is also helpful for plants that do not get as much light as you'd like, because they're not sitting in wet soil for too long.
To know when your houseplants need a drink, touch the soil. If it's dry, the plant needs water. If the surface is moist, hold off on watering. Check every single specimen – just because one needs to be watered doesn't mean they all do.
“The fail-safe is, if you don't know where to put a plant, put it in the window,” says Satch, who says that there is no such thing as a 'low light' plant. “Light is food for plants. Plants literally eat the sunlight. So for them to do well they need as much sunlight as possible.
Too little, and they're drooping like a wilted teabag. Too much, and they get a soggy bottom and grumpy leaves. Overwatering means yellowing leaves, a general feeling of flop (science calls it wilting!), fuzzy soil, and a pot that feels like it could double as a weight.
Another sign of overwatering can be fungus gnats. Fungus gnats feed on the fungi that show up in moist environments. They proliferate when the soil stays too wet for too long.
Yellowing Leaves: One of the most common signs of overwatering is leaves turning yellow. While older leaves will naturally yellow as they age, widespread yellowing, especially in younger leaves, indicates excess water. 2. Wilting: Paradoxically, overwatered plants often wilt, much like underwatered plants.
The most common uses of hydrogen peroxide for plants include: Eliminates root rot. Supports growth of healthier roots.
Mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts water, and drench the soil around the affected plant. Cinnamon is another natural remedy that can help prevent root rot due to its antifungal properties. Sprinkle cinnamon on the soil surface or mix it into the soil to help combat fungal pathogens.
The good news is orange roots are perfectly normal. Sansevieria roots naturally become orange due to old age and are stained by the soil. However, if you were to cut a root, it would be white (sometimes light green) in the middle. This is indicative of a healthy root.
Check your pot for proper drainage and, if possible, create additional air space around the roots. This will allow oxygen to reach the root zone. Remove any dead or dying roots and keep only the roots that are healthy. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not let it get too dry.
Soil Amendments
Perlite is a soil amendment that improves drainage and encourages root growth. It can also help keep the soil from getting compacted in a container. Some potting soil already includes perlite, but it can be purchased separately and then mixed into soil.
For example, if a plant is deficient in magnesium, its leaves can become pale and yellow—a condition known as chlorosis. Epsom salt can prevent this by providing the necessary magnesium. Since Epsom salt promotes chlorophyll production, it can also help make the foliage green and lush.
The most likely cause is low humidity. The humidity levels in homes is often low, especially during the winter months. Raise humidity levels by using a humidifier, pebble tray, terrarium, or by grouping plants together to allow their collective foliage to hold-in more humidity.