What to do when you over water your plant

Overwatering is one of the most common issues that plants face. It can lead to waterlogged soil, root rot, and eventually, the death of the plant. But if you have accidentally overwatered your plant, don't worry, there are still several things you can do to save it.

Assess the damage

The first step in dealing with overwatering is to assess the damage. Check the soil moisture level, and if the soil is too wet, water may have accumulated in the bottom of the pot, and roots could be rotting. Examine the leaves and stems, which could be yellow or brownish in color, and are often wilted or mushy, indicating that they are suffering from overhydration.

Stop watering

The next step is to stop watering your plant immediately. Overwatering happens when the roots are continually sitting in water, suffocating the plant. By stopping the water flow, you can help the soil to dry out more quickly and bring a little oxygen back to the plant's roots.

Drain the pot

If you've overfilled the pot with water or the soil is so moist that the water is stagnant, you need to pull out the plant and drain the pot. Gently remove the plant from the soil, and check the roots for any signs of rotting. Cut off any soft, discolored, or decaying roots with sterile shears. Rinse the roots under running water to remove any excess soil and debris. Drain the pot completely and let the plant rest for some time before you repot it with fresh soil.

Aerate the soil

If the soil is still wet, you can loosen it up with a fork or stick, allowing some air to reach the roots. By aerating the soil, you can help the water evaporate more quickly and reduce moisture levels in the pot. Be sure to do this carefully as you don't want to damage the roots of the plant.

Wait and watch

The final step is to be patient, wait and watch. Once you've done everything you can, all that's left is to sit back and wait for the soil to dry. It may take some time, and the plant may look wilted and sick, but don't give up on it yet. Plants have a remarkable ability to recover from difficult situations, as long as there is some healthy root system left. Give your plant some time to recover, and it should start showing signs of growth again.

Conclusion

Overwatering can be a frustrating and disheartening experience for any plant parent. However, by following some simple steps like assessing the damage, stopping watering, draining the pot, aerating the soil, and waiting patiently, you can help your plants bounce back from the brink of death. Always try to prevent overwatering by watering your plants only when they need it, and you'll see that your plants will thrive, and your gardening experience will be much more enjoyable.