Ask Madi!

Q: How do I know if I’m overwatering or under watering are there different signs?

A: Knowing the difference between over watering and under watering comes down to paying attention to the plant’s leaves, soil, and overall appearance. Brown and crunchy leaves are usually a sign of under watering, along with dry soil, drooping leaves that feel thin or papery, curling edges, and slow growth. Plants that are too dry may also start dropping older leaves to conserve water.

Brown and mushy leaves, on the other hand, are a common sign of over watering. Over watered plants often have soft stems, consistently wet or soggy soil, a musty smell, and may develop root rot if the problem continues. Yellowing leaves can be tricky, because they can occur with both over watering and under watering. In this situation, it’s important to check the soil if it’s completely dry, your plant likely needs water, but if it’s still damp or wet, it may be getting too much. It can also help to check the roots to see if they are healthy or if the plant has become root bound, since tightly packed roots can affect how water moves through the pot. Learning to check the soil regularly and noticing the texture of the leaves will help you better understand what your plant is telling you.

If you aren’t sure here at Covington Nursery we offer lots of knowledge to help you figure out what might be going on with your watering schedule. Come see us!