How to Dry Out Overwatered Pot Plant

Overwatering your pot plants can lead to root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant. However, there are ways to save an overwatered plant by drying it out. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to dry out an overwatered pot plant.

Step 1: Remove the Plant from Soil

The first step is to remove the plant from the soil. Carefully take the plant out of its pot and lay it down on a towel. Inspect the roots to see if they are brownish and soft, which indicates root rot due to overwatering.

Step 2: Trim the Roots

If you see brownish, soft roots, you should trim them back with pruners or scissors. Remove any roots that appear dead, mushy, or discolored. Leave the white or light-colored roots since they are healthy. After trimming the roots, rinse them with water to remove any soil and debris.

Step 3: Air Dry the Plant

Once you have trimmed the roots, the next step is to air dry the plant. Leave the plant out of the soil in a dry and warm place with good airflow. The goal is to remove as much moisture from the roots and plant as possible. You can also use a fan to increase airflow around the plant.

Step 4: Repot the Plant

Once the plant is sufficiently dry, it is time to repot it. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the previous one to give the roots more space. Fill the pot with fresh soil and create a hole in the center. Then, gently place the plant in the hole and fill the pot with soil around the roots. Gently press the soil down around the plant to ensure it is secured.

Step 5: Water the Plant Correctly

After the repotting is done, it is important to water the plant correctly to prevent overwatering in the future. Water the plant until the soil is moist but not soggy. You can also stick your finger into the soil to see if the soil is dry or moist. If it is still moist, you shouldn't water the plant.

Conclusion

Drying out an overwatered pot plant can be a bit tricky, but it is possible to save it if you act fast. The key steps are to remove the plant from soil, trim the roots, air dry the plant, repot it, and water it correctly. Keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure, so always water your plants when necessary and avoid overwatering them.