how to tell if plant is overwatered or underwatered

Author：James Wang Date：2023-04-06 17:05

Signs that your plant is not receiving enough water

Plants are living organisms that require water to survive. If a plant is not receiving enough water, it can start to show signs of stress or even die. Here are some of the signs that your plant is not receiving enough water.

The leaves are wilted or yellow

One of the most common signs that a plant is not receiving enough water is when the leaves start to wilt or turn yellow. When a plant starts to wilt, it means that it is losing water faster than it can replace it. This happens because the plant's roots are not able to absorb enough water from the soil. As a result, the plant's leaves start to droop and become wilted. If you notice that your plant's leaves are starting to turn yellow, it can also be a sign that it is not receiving enough water. This is because when a plant is not receiving enough water, it will start to sacrifice some of its leaves in order to conserve water.

The soil is dry and cracked

Another sign that your plant is not receiving enough water is when the soil is dry and cracked. When a plant is not receiving enough water, it will start to use up all the moisture in the soil. This will cause the soil to become dry and cracked. You can check the soil moisture by sticking your finger in the soil. If the soil is dry, it's time to give your plant some water.

The plant is drooping or leaning to one side

If you notice that your plant is drooping or leaning to one side, it can be a sign that it is not receiving enough water. When a plant is not receiving enough water, it will start to lose its turgor pressure. This means that the plant's stems and leaves will start to droop or wilt. If you notice that your plant is leaning to one side, it can also be a sign that it is not receiving enough water. This is because the plant will try to grow towards the direction where it can get the most water and sunlight.

Signs that your plant is receiving too much water

While it's important to make sure that your plant is receiving enough water, it's also important to make sure that you don't overwater it. Overwatering can be just as damaging to a plant as underwatering. Here are some of the signs that your plant is receiving too much water.

The leaves are yellow or brown and falling off

One of the most common signs that your plant is receiving too much water is when the leaves start to turn yellow or brown and fall off. When a plant is receiving too much water, it will start to lose its roots. This happens because the soil is too wet and the roots are not able to get enough oxygen. As a result, the plant will start to lose its leaves and eventually die.

The soil is always wet

If you notice that the soil is always wet, it can be a sign that you are overwatering your plant. When you overwater a plant, the soil will stay wet for longer periods of time. This makes it difficult for the plant to get the oxygen it needs to survive. You can check the soil moisture by sticking your finger in the soil. If the soil feels wet and soggy, it's time to cut back on the watering.

The plant has a moldy or musty smell

If you notice that your plant has a moldy or musty smell, it can be a sign that you are overwatering it. When you overwater a plant, it creates a humid environment that is perfect for mold and mildew to grow. This can cause your plant to develop a moldy or musty smell. If you notice this smell, it's time to cut back on the watering and give your plant some time to dry out.