Moon Valley Nursery - Arizona Blog

Perfecting the Pour: Watering Tips for Healthy Trees & Plants

Written by Moon Valley Nurseries | 10/13/2023
When it comes to taking care of your plants, one of the most common mistakes you can make is providing either too much or too little water. Both overwatering and under watering can have negative effects on the health and growth of your plants. Today, we will discuss the signs of overwatering or under watering in your plants.
 
One of the first signs of overwatering is yellowing leaves. When plants receive too much water, their roots become saturated and are unable to absorb oxygen properly. This lack of oxygen causes the leaves to turn yellow and eventually, they may even drop off. Additionally, overwatered plants may have soft and mushy roots, along with a strong odor coming from the soil.
 
On the other hand, under watering can also have detrimental effects on your plants. One of the key signs of under watering is wilting. When plants do not receive enough water, they lose turgidity and become limp. In severe cases, the leaves may turn brown and crispy. Another sign of under watering is dry soil. If the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch, it is an indication that your plants are not receiving enough water.
 
 
To prevent overwatering or under watering, it is important to establish a consistent watering schedule for your plants. This schedule should consider the specific water requirements of each type of plant. Factors such as the size of the pot, the type of soil, and the weather conditions should also be considered when determining how much water your plants need.
 
When watering your household plants, it is best to use the bottom-up method. This means placing the pot in a tray of water and allowing the plant to absorb the moisture from the bottom. This method ensures that the roots receive enough water without risking water logging the soil. Additionally, it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This will help prevent overwatering and encourage the roots to grow deeper in search of water.
 
Overwatering and under watering can have detrimental effects on the health and growth of your plants. By understanding the signs of overwatering and under watering, you can take the necessary steps to correct these issues and promote healthy plant growth. Remember to establish a consistent watering schedule in your landscape and use the bottom-up method to provide your indoor plants with the right amount of water. With proper care and attention, your plants will thrive and bring beauty to your garden or indoor space.

Learn how to properly water your trees & shrubs here!