Watering might seem like the simplest part of plant care, but it’s a delicate balance that can make or break your green friends. Overwatering and underwatering are two of the most common issues plant parents face, and both can lead to stressed, unhappy plants if not addressed. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you spot the signs, find the right solutions, and keep your plants hydrated just right.
Signs of Overwatering
Overwatering happens when a plant gets too much water, causing the roots to suffocate and eventually rot. Common signs include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a generally sad, droopy appearance despite moist soil. You might also notice mold or a funky smell coming from the soil—sure signs that your plant’s roots are drowning.
Another telltale sign is if the leaves start to develop dark spots or appear translucent, indicating waterlogged cells. If the soil is consistently wet and your plant is still showing signs of distress, overwatering is likely the culprit.
Keep in mind, overwatering is most often not caused by too much water at once but a bit of water too often.
Signs of Underwatering
Underwatering, on the other hand, is when your plant isn’t getting enough water, leading to dry, shriveled leaves and drooping stems. The soil will often be bone dry, pulling away from the sides of the pot, and leaves may turn crispy, brown, or completely fall off.
If your plant seems to perk up quickly after a thorough watering but then quickly wilts again, it’s likely not getting enough hydration on a regular basis. Curling leaves and stunted growth are also common signs of underwatering, especially in thirsty species like Ferns or Calatheas.
Solutions for Overwatered Plants
First things first, if you suspect overwatering, stop watering immediately 🙅♀️ Let the soil dry out a bit before your next watering session. Check the drainage situation—make sure your pot has drainage holes to let excess water escape. If the plant’s roots are already showing signs of rot (brown, mushy, or smelly), you’ll need to take action fast.
Carefully remove the plant from its pot, gently shake off the soggy soil, and trim away any rotting roots with clean shears. Repot your plant in fresh, well-draining soil, and if you have a heavy hand, consider using a terra cotta pot, which helps wick away excess moisture. Moving forward, always check the soil’s moisture level before watering again. A good rule of thumb: let at least the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
Solutions for Underwatered Plants
Underwatered plants can often bounce back quickly once they receive a good drink. Start by thoroughly soaking the soil until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. For especially dry soil that’s hardened and won’t absorb water easily, try bottom watering: place the pot in a shallow tray of water and let it soak up moisture from the bottom over about 30 minutes to an hour.
Regularly check the soil moisture and establish a consistent watering schedule. Some plants prefer a more frequent watering routine, while others thrive on the “soak and dry” method like Monsteras. Adjust based on your plant’s specific needs and the environment it’s in—warmer, brighter spaces often require more frequent watering and vice versa.
Prevention Tips
Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to watering woes. Here are some tips to keep your watering game on point:
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Know Your Plant’s Needs: Different plants have different watering requirements. Research your plant’s natural habitat and try to replicate those conditions. Succulents and cacti like it dry and can go weeks without water, while tropical plants like ferns prefer consistently moist (but not soggy) soil.
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Check Before You Water: Always check the soil before watering—stick your finger or a chopstick an inch or two into the soil to feel for moisture. If it’s still damp, hold off. For more accuracy, consider using a moisture meter, especially for tricky plants.
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Adjust for the Seasons: Plants typically need less water in the winter months when they’re not actively growing, so adjust your watering schedule accordingly. During the growing season (spring and summer), they’ll likely need more frequent watering.
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Use the Right Pot and Soil: Ensure your pots have drainage holes, and use well-draining soil suited to your plant type. Heavy soils can retain too much moisture, leading to overwatering issues, while lighter, airy mixes work well for plants that prefer drier conditions.
Check out our signature blend, Dirt Bag & read up on Plant Pots 101 for more tips!
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Water Consistently: Establish a routine and stick to it, but remain flexible based on the plant’s needs. Plants thrive on consistency, but environmental factors like humidity and light can affect their water needs, so be ready to adjust as needed 💪
