Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants. It's counterintuitive — surely plants need water? But roots also need oxygen, and in waterlogged soil, oxygen is displaced. Roots begin to rot, and a rotting root system can't deliver water to leaves — causing the same wilting symptoms as underwatering.
Signs of Overwatering
What to Do
Step 1 — Stop watering. Let the soil dry out.
Step 2 — Improve drainage. If your pot has no drainage hole, or sits in a saucer of water, fix this first.
Step 3 — Check the roots. Unpot the plant. Healthy roots are white or light tan. Brown/black mushy roots have root rot.
Step 4 — If root rot is present: trim all affected roots back to healthy tissue with clean scissors. Dust cut ends with cinnamon (a natural antifungal). Repot into fresh, dry compost.
Step 5 — Give the plant a recovery period. Place in bright indirect light. Don't water for several days — or until the new soil is partially dry.
