How to Fix Over Watered Potted Plants

Watering your potted plants is important, but it can be easy to overdo it. Over-watering your plants can lead to root rot, which can turn fatal for the plant if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss how to fix over-watered potted plants.

Stop Watering

If you suspect that you have over-watered your potted plants, the first thing you need to do is stop watering them. Leaving the plants without water for a few days can help to dry out the soil and relieve some of the excess moisture.

Check the Soil

Once you have stopped watering the plants, it's time to check the soil. Use a stick or your finger to see how wet the soil is. If it feels soggy or wet, it's a sign that the plant has been over-watered. You can also check for standing water in the drainage dish or pot saucer.

Remove Excess Water

If there is standing water, it's important to remove it immediately. Drain the excess water from the pot saucer, and lift the pot to check whether there is pooling water at the bottom. If there is, tip the pot to pour out the excess water.

Repot the Plant

If your plant is severely over-watered, its roots may have rotted in the waterlogged soil. In this case, you will need to repot the plant. Remove the plant from the pot, and gently remove any soil that clings to the roots. Cut off any rotted or discolored roots with sterilized scissors.

Change the Soil

If your plant's roots are still healthy, it's important to change the soil. Discard the old soil, and replace it with fresh, well-draining soil. Ensure that the soil is well-aerated and not compacted, as compacted soil can lead to poor drainage.

Reduce Watering

Once you have repotted the plant or changed the soil, it's important to reduce your watering schedule. Do not water the plant until the soil is dry to the touch, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Ensure that the pot has proper drainage to prevent future over-watering.

Monitor Your Plant

It's important to keep a close eye on your plant after fixing its over-watering. Check the soil regularly to ensure that it's not too moist, and look for any signs of root rot, such as leaf yellowing or mushy, black roots. Address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.

Conclusion

Over-watering your potted plants can be a common mistake, but it's important to take action to fix the issue. By following these steps, you can help your plant recover from over-watering and thrive in healthy, well-draining soil.