How to Revive a Plant that the Water Dried Up

It happens to the best of us – sometimes we forget to water our beloved plants, and the next thing we know, they’re dry and seemingly dead. Before you throw in the towel and toss the plant in the trash, try these tips for reviving it.

Step 1: Give it a Soak

The first thing you should do is give the plant a good soaking. Fill a bowl or sink with water and submerge the plant in it for about an hour. This will help to rehydrate the soil and the roots of the plant. Once the hour is up, remove the plant from the water and let it drain in a sunny spot for a few hours.

Step 2: Check the Roots

After the plant has had a chance to drain, gently remove it from its pot and check the roots. If they are brown and mushy, then they are likely dead and there is not much you can do to save the plant. However, if the roots are still firm and white, then there is hope. Remove any dead leaves and cut back any dead stems, and repot the plant in fresh soil.

Step 3: Keep it Moist

After repotting the plant, make sure to keep the soil consistently moist. This means watering it regularly, but not overwatering it. Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Check the soil daily and water as soon as it starts to feel dry to the touch.

Step 4: Provide Adequate Light

Plants need light to photosynthesize and grow, so make sure your revived plant is getting enough of it. Place it in a sunny spot or provide artificial light if necessary.

Step 5: Be Patient

Reviving a plant takes time and patience. Don’t expect overnight results – it may take several weeks or even months for the plant to fully recover. Keep up with regular watering and provide it with the proper care, and you may just see your plant come back to life.

Remember, prevention is always the best course of action – try to water your plants on a regular schedule to avoid a dry-out in the first place. But if you do find yourself with a dry, droopy plant, follow these steps and see if you can bring it back to life.