What Happens When You Over Water Your Plants

As a plant enthusiast, you may assume that watering your plants excessively is a good thing. However, often people tend to over water their plants without realizing the negative consequences that come with it. Over watering your plants is a common mistake that can negatively affect the growth of your plants.

The Effects of Over Watering Plants

Over watering your plants can cause several adverse effects that may ultimately lead to plant growth problems. Excess water can cause root rot, which results in a fungal infection of the roots. When the roots are excessively watered, the roots' oxygen supply is cut off, causing them to suffocate and ultimately die. Once the roots are compromised, the rest of the plant will start to wither and die off, leading to the death of the entire plant.

Additionally, over watering your plant can also lead to poor soil quality, since excessive water can wash away soil nutrients that are responsible for feeding the plant. When this occurs, the plant will not get the necessary nutrients it needs to thrive, which may cause it to wilt.

How to Tell if You're Over Watering Your Plants

It's quite easy to tell if your plants are being over watered. The first sign that your plant is suffering from over watering is wilted or yellowing leaves that are soft to the touch. If the leaves are still green and waxy to the touch but drooping, watering once should solve the issue. However, if the leaves continue to wilt, even after watering, then it's likely due to excessive watering. Additionally, if the soil is consistently damp, and the plant has stunted growth, it may be time to cut back on the watering.

How to Prevent Over Watering Your Plants

If you want to avoid over watering your plants, there are a few simple steps you can take. First, make sure that you're using well-draining soil. If the soil remains moist for too long, it may be time to add organic matter or coarse sand to help with drainage. Water your plant slowly and deeply, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Use a watering can with a long spout or a garden hose to water your plant from above to ensure that the soil is moist throughout the entire pot. Lastly, if you're growing your plants indoors, make sure that you're providing adequate ventilation to allow the soil to dry out in between waterings.

In Conclusion

In summary, over watering your plants can have negative effects on plant growth, leading to root rot, poor soil quality and ultimately, death of the plant. To avoid over watering your plants, make sure to use well-draining soil, water your plants slowly and deeply, and ensure proper ventilation when growing your plants indoors. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving.