What to Do if Over Watering Your Plants

While plants need water to survive, over watering them can be detrimental to their growth, resulting in root rot and other issues. Here are some tips on what to do if you've over watered your plants.

Assess the Damage

The first step in addressing the issue of over watering is to assess the damage to your plants. Signs of over watering can include yellow leaves, soft or mushy stems, and a foul odor. Check the soil to see if it is waterlogged and if there is standing water in the saucer beneath the pot.

Stop Watering

If you notice signs of over watering, the first thing you should do is stop watering the plant immediately. Continuing to water the plant will only exacerbate the issue and may result in even more damage to the roots and leaves.

Remove Excess Water

If there is standing water in the saucer beneath the pot, remove it immediately. Similarly, if the soil is soggy, gently remove the plant from the pot and remove any excess water from the soil. You can do this by placing the pot on its side and gently squeezing the soil to release the excess water.

Improve Drainage

To prevent over watering in the future, you will need to improve the drainage of your plant's pot. You can do this by adding a layer of rocks or pebbles to the bottom of the pot before adding the soil. Alternatively, you can use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Adjust Watering Schedule

If you tend to over water your plants, it may be time to adjust your watering schedule. Different plants have different water requirements, so make sure you are only watering your plants when they need it. You can do this by checking the soil moisture level with your finger or investing in a soil moisture meter.

Trim Damage

If your plant has suffered significant damage due to over watering, you may need to trim away any dead or dying leaves or stems. This will help redirect the plant's energy to new growth and prevent the spread of any disease or fungus that may have developed as a result of the over watering.

Conclusion

While over watering your plants can be a frustrating mistake, it is not the end of the world. By taking the appropriate steps to assess the damage, remove excess water, and improve drainage, you can help your plant recover from the effects of over watering and ensure it continues to thrive in the future.