Gardeners are being warned about a common mistake that could be causing their plants’ leaves to turn yellow due to overwatering.
This problem, which affects both novice and experienced gardeners, can lead to major plant health problems if not addressed promptly.
Experts at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) explain that yellowing leaves are usually a sign of stress in plants, with overwatering being one of the most common culprits.
When plants receive too much water, their roots can become waterlogged, depriving them of the oxygen they need to thrive.
Overwatering can cause root rot, a condition where roots rot due to prolonged exposure to water.
This decomposition prevents the plant from absorbing essential nutrients, resulting in yellow leaves, wilting, and eventually the death of the plant.
An RHS spokesperson said: “While it is natural to want to look after plants by ensuring they have enough water, too much of a good thing can be harmful. Plants need a balance of water and oxygen to survive, and overwatering upsets this balance.”
Gardeners should be vigilant to identify signs of overwatering. Yellowing leaves, especially if they appear wilted or soft, are a leading indicator.
Additionally, if the soil remains constantly wet and has a bad odor, these are signs that overwatering may be occurring. To avoid overwatering, it is essential to check the soil moisture level before watering.
Experts recommend sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If the soil feels dry at this depth, it is safe to water the plant. However, if it is still damp, it is best to wait a few days before checking it again.
Different plants have different water needs and it is important to adapt watering practices accordingly.
For example, succulents and cacti need much less water than tropical plants.
Understanding the specific needs of each plant species is essential to avoid overwatering.
The RHS offers these tips for proper watering:
- Water in the morning: Watering plants early in the morning allows excess water to evaporate throughout the day, reducing the risk of waterlogging.
- Use well-drained soil: Make sure your plants are potted in well-draining soil to prevent water from pooling in the roots.
- Avoid light and frequent watering: It is better to water plants deeply and less frequently than to water them lightly every day. Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, improving plant stability and health.
Choosing the right container is also essential to avoid excess water.
Containers should have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Without proper drainage, water can pool at the bottom of the pot, causing root rot.
Gardeners should also consider saucers placed under pots.
While these saucers can prevent water from spilling onto surfaces, they can also trap excess water.
It is important to empty these saucers periodically to ensure that the plants do not sit in water.
