Learn about the major Signs of Underwatering Houseplants and promote healthy growth with balanced watering in your indoor garden.
Overwatering is the biggest concern of gardening enthusiasts; they are also bothered and often think, are they overwatering plants? It can be tricky because the signs of overwatering and underwatering look similar. Overwatering happens when you give your plant too much water, and the roots can’t get the oxygen they need because the soil stays too wet. Plants need both water and air in the soil to stay healthy. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the soil to dry out too much. You might notice the soil shrinking away from the sides of the pot or soaking up water very quickly when you water it. Here, you will find Signs of Underwatering Houseplants.
Signs of Underwatering Houseplants
The first signs of overwatering are leaves that turn yellow or brown and start to wilt. This can also happen when a plant is underwatered, which makes it confusing. The easiest way to tell the difference is by touching the leaves. If your plant needs water, the wilted leaves will feel dry and crispy. But if you’re overwatering, the leaves will feel soft, limp, and look discolored, not crunchy.
You may also experience;
- Leaves that feel paper-thin and crisp
- Curling or browning leaves
- Drooping foliage that benefits after watering
- Slow growth with small foliage
- Dry/hard soil
- Gaps between soil and pots wall (inside)
- Dry-desiccated roots
- In succulents- leaves appear wrinkled
Tips to Prevent Underwatering
Underwatering is usually less harmful than overwatering, which can lead to problems like root rot and diseases. However, if a plant gets too dry, it might fade before you notice. Here are some simple tips to prevent underwatering:
Water Properly
Make sure you water your plants deeply so all the soil gets hydrated. Pour water slowly over the top of the soil and let it soak in. Keep adding water until you see it draining out of the bottom of the pot. This helps all the roots get enough water. If water collects in the saucer under the pot, empty it so the plant doesn’t sit in water.
Check the Location
Pay attention to where your plant is placed. Plants in sunny spots take up water faster because of the light and warmth. The soil dries out quicker in these conditions, so you may need to water more often.
If your plant is in a cooler, less sunny spot, it won’t need as much water, but it’s still a good idea to check the soil once a week.
Repot in Case of Rootbound
If the root system of plants gets too large, it can outgrow the pot and become rootbound. This means there isn’t enough soil to support the plant properly. When most of the pot is filled with roots, there’s little room left for soil or water, so the roots can’t get enough water.
Root-bound houseplants are more likely to dry out and need more water. Repotting them into a bigger pot gives their roots more space to grow, take in nutrients, and absorb water.
Set Alarms
Most of the time, busy or forgetful gardeners make the mistake of underwatering their houseplants. In such conditions, setting a reminder on their phones or making a routine will be helpful. Choose one day each week to check on your plants, and never forget to water your indoor plants.
Check Soil Moisture
The easiest way to check the soil is by sticking your finger about an inch deep. If it feels moist, you don’t need to water. You can also use a moisture meter to make it easier to know when your plant needs water.
Prune Dry Foliage
After watering the plants correctly, trim and prune any dry, brown leaves to tidy up the plants.
Water Repetedly Big Plants
For big indoor plants, water them from the top a few times instead of soaking the whole pot. Loosen the top layer of soil to help the water soak in. Dry soil can shrink and cause water to run down the sides without soaking in properly. You may need to water a few times to make sure the soil is wet enough.
Submerge Small Potted Plants in Water This Way
If your plant is in a small pot with a drainage hole, fill the sink with room temperature water and soak the pot in it. Wait until the bubbles stop before taking the plant out. Let any extra water drain out of the pot, then put it back on its saucer and top up any soil that has washed away.
