Over and underwatering are two of the most common mistakes people make with their indoor houseplants. But it can be hard to tell which of the two issues are happening because the signs are sometimes similar.
Here are some signs that you are overwatering or underwatering your plants, as well as how to rectify the issue.
Signs of Overwatered Houseplants
Overwatering your houseplant means that you are watering it too frequently or the soil is staying wet for too long. Overwatering an indoor plant is very easy to do, and you may not even realize you are doing it at first. Here is a list of signs to watch for:
Soft, limp leaves that develop yellow and/or brown tips and edges
A small yellow “halo” between green and brown parts of leaves
Brown spots on the leaves
Stems feel mushy, especially at the base of the plant
No new growth
Roots that are mushy, black, brown, or grey
Wet soil that may have a rotting, offensive smell
Fungus or mold growing on the soil
The presence of fungus gnats
Signs of Underwatered Houseplants
Underwatering your houseplant means that the plant is not getting watered as frequently as it would like and the soil is staying dry for too long. If you live a busy lifestyle then sometimes watering houseplants might completely slip your mind. Here are some signs that you are underwatering your indoor plants:
Drooping leaves that perk back up after watering
Browning or curling leaves (typically no yellowing)
Leaves that feel paper-thin and crispy
On succulent plants, leaves that look wrinkly
Slow growth with smaller leaves
Roots that are dried out and desiccated
Hard, dry soil
A gap between the soil and the inside of the pot walls
How To Remedy Watering Issues
Once you have determined whether you’re overwatering or underwatering your indoor plants, here are some tips to help you learn how to water plants properly.
How To Prevent Overwatering
Sometimes all it takes is to let an overwatered plant dry out and add a few extra days in between waterings. But if your plant is not bouncing back then you might need to try a few different things. Here are some tips to avoid overwatering:
Research the Plant
Test the soil
Use well draining soil
Use a pot with good drainage
How To Prevent Underwatering
Usually underwatering a plant is less damaging than overwatering, which can cause additional problems like root rot and other diseases. But of course, if a plant is too dry it can shrivel up before you even realize it. Here are our top tips to avoid underwatering:
Water correctly
Be mindful of the location of the plant
Re-pot if rootbound
Always test the soil before watering, and water deeply and thoroughly when your plant does need it.
If you need more green tips for keeping your plants alive and thriving, check out our blogs. Read up on care guides for each of your indoor plants as soon as you purchase them. This always makes plant care easier and gets you and your new green friend started on the right foot!
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