What Happens if I Over Water My Plants?

If you've ever had a plant die on you, you may have wondered what went wrong. Did you over water it? Under water it? Maybe you just had a "black thumb." Whatever the case may be, understanding how water affects your plants can help you prevent future mishaps. This article will focus on the effects of over watering and how to avoid it.

What Happens When You Over Water?

Over watering can lead to a variety of problems, most notably root rot. When a plant's roots are constantly sitting in water, they can't breathe properly, leading to a lack of oxygen. This lack of oxygen creates the perfect environment for harmful bacteria and fungi to thrive. These pathogens can quickly damage a plant's roots, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water and nutrients. In severe cases, root rot can be fatal for a plant.

Signs of Over Watering

So how can you tell if you're over watering your plants? Some signs include:

Yellowing leaves

Mushy or slimy roots

A pungent or musty smell

Wilting leaves, but the soil is wet

Slow growth or no growth at all

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take action to correct the problem.

Preventing Over Watering

Thankfully, there are several precautions you can take to prevent over watering. Here are some tips:

Ensure proper drainage: Make sure your plant's pot has adequate drainage holes. If it doesn't, consider repotting it in a container that allows excess water to escape.

Check the soil: Before watering your plant, check the soil moisture level with your finger. If the top inch is dry, it's safe to water. If it's still moist, wait a few more days before watering.

Water less frequently: Instead of watering every day, let the soil dry out between waterings. The frequency will depend on the plant's needs, so research the specific plant to determine how often it should be watered.

Avoid overhead watering: When you water your plant from above, the excess water can sit in the center of the plant, leading to conditions ripe for fungal growth. Instead, water your plant from the bottom by placing it in a tray of water and letting it soak up what it needs. Once the top of the soil is moist, remove it from the tray to prevent excess water from sitting in the pot.

Conclusion

Over watering your plants can quickly become a problem, leading to root rot and other issues. However, by understanding how water affects your plants and taking the proper precautions, you can avoid these problems and help your plants thrive.