Overwatering
Overwatering is the leading cause of houseplant death. When soil stays saturated, air pockets collapse, roots suffocate, and fungal pathogens attack the weakened root system.
Quick Diagnosis
Signs include yellowing leaves, soft or mushy stems near the soil line, and white or gray mold on the soil surface. Fungus gnats hovering near the soil, a foul smell from the pot, and soil that stays wet longer than a week after watering all point to overwatering.
Causes
Understanding the root cause is the first step to fixing the problem.
- 1Watering on a fixed schedule without checking soil moisture.
- 2Pots without drainage holes trapping water at the bottom.
- 3Using heavy, water-retentive soil that stays soggy too long.
- 4Pot too large for the plant, holding more moisture than roots can absorb.
- 5Watering during the plant's dormant winter period when water needs are reduced.
- 6Saucers collecting standing water under the pot.
Treatment Steps
Follow these steps to treat overwatering in your indoor plants.
- 1
Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out.
- 2
Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Healthy roots are white or tan; rotting roots are brown or black and mushy.
- 3
Trim all affected roots with sterile scissors or pruners.
- 4
Repot in fresh, well-draining soil in a clean pot with drainage holes.
- 5
Water sparingly as the plant recovers, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
- 6
Place in a warm spot with good air circulation to help the soil dry.
Prevention Tips
Keep your plants healthy by following these preventive measures.
- Always check soil moisture before watering by inserting a finger 1-2 inches deep.
- Use pots with drainage holes -- always.
- Choose appropriate soil mixes: add perlite for better drainage.
- Use the right pot size: no more than 1-2 inches larger than the root ball.
- Reduce watering in fall and winter when growth slows.
- Empty saucers within 30 minutes of watering.