It happens and a surprisingly common issue, so don’t panic. To know if your plants are drowning from too much TLC, here are the signs of overwatering your plants & how to save them. You’re welcome!
Yes, we have all been in this type of situation, especially for beginners or new plant parents. Overwatering your plants is the most common way to kill them. We can’t blame you, of course, since you only want to give your plant babies attention and love. However, too much of anything is bad. So if you spot any of the signs below, put that watering can down. Trust us, it will save your plants from going to Plant Heaven.
Sign #1: Brown or Yellow Leaves
One of the most common signs of overwatering your plants is brown and yellow leaves. It might look like it’s wilting, as well. If your plant looks like this, but you’re not sure if it’s because of improper water levels, use your finger and check the plant’s soil thoroughly to see if it is wet. Make sure that you reach the plant’s base. If the soil feels wet, water less frequently. Keep in mind that there is no guarantee that your plant can bounce back from overwatering. You will see the results within a week or so if your plant is going to survive.
Sign #2: Feels Mushy or Unstable
Another obvious sign that you’re overwatering your plants is if the base begins to feel mushy or unstable. Aside from wilting leaves, the soil looks soaked, and it’s starting to give off a rotten odor. If your plant has this sign, you need to act fast and be more aggressive. We recommend that you repot your plant and trim away all the affected black or brown roots with sharp gardening trimmers to keep it alive. Additionally, check your planter for proper drainage, and create additional air space around the roots.
Sign #3: Leaves Develop Brown or Yellow Spots
OK, next on our list of signs of overwatering your plants are brown and yellow spots on the leaves. To be specific, brown spots encircled by a yellow halo, which means that your plant has a bacteria infection. The solution is to remove all diseased plant material. We highly suggest that you avoid low temperatures, crowding your plants, and spraying or splashing water onto the leaves. Then use sprays of copper soap to reduce the incidence of future disease.
Sign #4: Plant is Dropping Old and New Leaves
Sometimes, this could be normal, especially if you just brought home a plant. It means that it’s adjusting to its environment. For example, the Croton plant. However, if both yellowing leaves and new growth are falling from your plant, then there is a good chance you are overwatering your plants. The solution to this problem is pretty simple. Drop the watering can and water your plant only when the soil is dry.
Sign #5: Plants Have Fungus or Mold
One of the most obvious and strongest signs of overwatering your plants are fungus or mold on top of the soil. Remember that overwatering your plants attracts diseases, such as mold. However, it’s not the end of your plant’s life. You simply need to repot the plant in fresh, sterile soil and new planter. Then place it in a sunny spot to dry out your potting soil, and wipe the plant down with a damp cloth. Lastly, apply a fungicide to your plant. Spray the solution generously over the plant and on the surface of the soil.
Overwatering your plants can be avoided by reading the plants’ care instructions. It will guide you on how often you should water your plants. Another factor you need to consider is to purchase a planter with drainage holes. Always remember to wait until the soil is completely dry at the root level before watering again to avoid these problems.
Grow your plant knowledge. Check out our Plant Care blog to learn more about different houseplants and tips on how to keep your plants alive and healthy.
