How do you tell if Underwatering vs overwatering?

By / December 25, 2022

To determine whether your plant is experiencing underwatering or overwatering, it’s important to pay attention to the specific symptoms your plant is displaying and to check the soil moisture level. Here are some additional tips for determining the cause of your plant’s problems:

  1. Check the soil moisture level – One of the best ways to determine whether your plant is experiencing underwatering or overwatering is to check the soil moisture level. To do this, stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If the soil feels dry, it may be a sign that the plant is experiencing underwatering. If the soil feels soggy or mushy, it may be a sign of overwatering.
  2. Consider the watering schedule – Pay attention to how often you are watering your plant and whether it is receiving the appropriate amount of water based on its needs. For example, if you are watering your plant daily but it is only requiring weekly watering, it may be experiencing overwatering.
  3. Examine the root system – If you are experiencing persistent problems with your plant and are unsure of the cause, you may want to consider examining the root system. If the roots appear brown, mushy, or rotten, it is likely a sign of overwatering. If the roots appear dry and withered, it may be a sign of underwatering.
  4. Consider the pot size and soil mixture – The size of the pot and the type of soil mixture you are using can also impact the watering needs of your plant. If you are using a pot that is too large or a soil mixture that retains too much moisture, it may be contributing to overwatering. On the other hand, if you are using a pot that is too small or a soil mixture that drains poorly, it may be contributing to underwatering.

In conclusion, determining whether your plant is experiencing underwatering or overwatering can be challenging, but by paying attention to the specific symptoms your plant is displaying and by checking the soil moisture level, you can get a better sense of which issue your plant is facing. It’s also important to consider other factors, such as your watering schedule, the size of the pot and the type of soil mixture you are using, and the appearance of the root system, as these can all impact the watering needs of your plant. By following these tips and adjusting your watering habits accordingly, you can help to ensure that your plant is receiving the right amount of water to thrive.