Preventing and Treating Overwatering Indoor Plants

By Justin Hancock, Costa Farms Horticulturist
Photo courtesy of Costa Farms

Did you know overwatering is the most cause of death for indoor plants? Even experienced plant parents can fall into the trap. Learn to look for signs of overwatering, how to prevent it, and what you can do to save an overwatered indoor plant. 

Is your indoor plant looking droopy or yellow?

It might be a victim of overwatering. While plants need water to survive, too much can be more harmful than too little. While overwatering can occur at any time of the year, it’s sometimes more frequent in fall. As the days get shorter and light intensity decreases, your indoor plants have less energy to grow and may use less water.

Signs of Overwatering

• Yellowing leaves: This can be (but isn’t necessarily) a sign that the roots are rotting due to excess moisture.
• Drooping leaves: Overwatering can cause the leaves to lose their turgor, leading to drooping.
• Mushy stems: If the stems feel soft or mushy, it's often a sign of root rot.
• Soft, discolored roots: As roots are stressed or suffocate from too much moisture, they begin to die or are attacked by fungi.
• Fungal growth: Mold or fungus may appear on the soil surface or plant parts. (Note: Mold may grow on moist potting mixes, even when overwatering doesn’t occur.)
  

Can an Indoor Plant Recover from Overwatering?

The answer depends on the severity of the overwatering and the type of plant. If caught early, many plants can recover with proper care. However, severe overwatering can lead to irreversible root damage.

How to Save an Overwatered Indoor Plant

• Increase Light: Provide your plant with ample light to encourage photosynthesis and recovery.
• Look at the Roots: Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots. If they are discolored or mushy, cut away the damaged parts. If the potting mix retains more moisture than is advisable for your watering style, repot the plant in a potting mix with better aeration.
• Improve Drainage: Ensure the pot has drainage holes and use a potting mix that allows excess water to drain.
  

Tips to Prevent Overwatering

• Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, stick your finger into the soil. If it feels moist, wait a few days before watering again.
• Reduce Watering: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Consider both the amount of water you use and the frequency of when you water to find a better balance for your plant.
• Adjust Watering for Seasons: Plants typically need less water in the fall and winter than in the spring and summer.
• Consider Pot Size and Type: Larger pots hold more moisture, so you may need to water less frequently. Terracotta pots allow moisture to evaporate more quickly than plastic or ceramic pots.
• Use a Self-Watering System: A good self-watering system, like Wick & Grow, eliminates the risk of overwatering when used properly by regulating the amount of water available to the potting mix.

Remember, prevention is key. By following these tips and paying attention to your indoor plant's needs, you can help ensure its long-term health and happiness. https://costafarms.com/

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