The right amount of water is the key to healthy and strong plants. Since plants have very different needs, it is not easy to know how much water each plant needs.

 

To find out how much an individual plant needs to be watered, it is important to observe certain symptoms that reveal whether the plant is getting too much or too little water. However, similar symptoms can also be caused by incorrect light conditions, so it is important to observe closely how the plant reacts to different amounts of water.

 

If the stem near the roots is slightly muddy and soft and turns dark green, this can be a sign of root rot caused by excessive watering. Especially in winter, this symptom is often seen when the plant needs less water than in summer. Root rot is often found in plants in pots without a water drainage hole. The plant, if it shows signs of root rot, should be transplanted immediately into dry soil to allow the root and lower stem to dry.

 

If the tips of the plant's leaves turn brown, this can be a sign of both too much and too little watering. Brown leaves can also be a sign of too much sunlight. A few brown leaves on the plant are not a cause for concern, as plants shed older leaves. Yellowish leaves on the lower part of the plant indicate too little water.

 

Wilty foliage, small growth and stunting can also occur due to too much or too little water. If the top layer of potting soil is dry when this sign appears, the plant probably needs a little more water. Never water a plant if the top layer of soil is moist. If the soil dries out very quickly, the plant may be in a place that is too warm and should be taken out of direct sunlight.

 

If there is a gap between the pot and the soil, the plant needs more water. In this case, the soil should thoroughly soak up water to restore the moisture content in the roots, then provide drainage for the excess water.

 

Plants in pots and window boxes need particularly good water drainage so that moisture does not accumulate around the roots. A flower container should have at least one hole in the bottom to drain off excess water. Soggy soil prevents air from reaching the roots and will suffocate the plant over time.