Why does over watering a plant kill it

Water soaked spots and blisters Oedema may appear on stems and leaves. The crown of the plant may rot. Damaged roots have little defense against the entrance of rot causing soil organisms. And so the plant dies of root rot. Deep watering encourages roots to go deep down in the soil to where it is moist and a lot cooler. Water less frequently but for longer periods, so water reaches deep into soil. Good thorough watering promotes healthier plants.

Investigate using water conserving drip emitters or soaker hoses on a timer. Adjust watering frequency and amounts based on season, temperature and amount of rainfall. Overhead watering uses more water and can promote fungal disease. Also make sure you don't have leaking irrigation pipes or downspouts that are keeping the soil too wet in a location.

Add mulch to individual plants or beds. Add organic matter such as compost or rotted manure to plantings organic matter can improve drainage in heavy clay soils. Take care to keep mulch away from stems. Use appropriate plants. Evaluate your site for new plantings. Choose plants with the appropriate water and cultural needs that will thrive on your site. Use water loving plants for moist poorly drained soils.

Also consider native plants, which generally adapt better, have lower water demands and fewer pest problems. Water only when necessary. Most plants will normally wilt in hot sun and may recover on their own later in the day as the sun moves.

Make sure soil is not too wet based on the needs of particular plants before watering; you may end up by over watering. A dry surface is not always a sign of water need. The surface generally dries out first and is not a true indicator of what is going on down deep near the plant root. Make use of a hand trowel or soil probe to check for moisture. Check for overwatering by digging into root zone or knocking a small potted plant out of its container.

Soil that has been too long without oxygen usually smells sour or rotten. Give priority to watering newly planted trees and shrubs. Always check the surrounding roots before watering the plant and try to follow the care tips for each plant that you have in your garden as the watering instructions for different plants like air purifying plants , bonsai plants, etc.

There are also certain gadgets available in the market through which you can get the reading of how much amount of moisture the soil needs or has at a given time. Help your plant stay healthy for a long time with its proper watering and care! Happy planting! Skip to main content. Facebook twitter linkedin rss.

Submitted by ankur. Overwatering Kill Plants. Supplements for the Plant. Popular Post. Item 5 of total. Blog category. Item 50 of total. Teachers Day. Valentine Gifts for Boyfriend. Valentine Gifts for Girlfriend. Republic Day. Online Flowers. Raksha Bandhan. Valentine Gifts for Her. Valentine Gifts for Him. Valentine Gifts for Husband. Valentine Gifts for Wife. Check the soil the plant was in for any signs of fungus or mold, and either treat it with a fungicide such as thiophanate-methyl or replace the soil in that immediate area.

When you replant, make sure the area is mulched to help ensure proper drainage. Turn off irrigation systems and do not water outdoor potted plants during rainy times. The rain itself will be enough to nourish them. Do not water plants simply because the top layer of soil is dry. Poke a finger into it, and see if the deeper layer is moist. If it is, do not water the plant for one to two days. Brynne Chandler has been a freelance writer her entire adult life, save for an occasional foray into catering and importing Mexican Rustic furniture.

An avid gardener and cook, her love for all things home related makes her most likely the only EMMY-nominated TV Animation writer who still irons her dish towels. Her work has appeared in the Houston Chronicle and the San Francisco Chronicle online, among other places. By Brynne Chandler Updated December 15, Related Articles. Tip Turn off irrigation systems and do not water outdoor potted plants during rainy times.