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Overwatering in Catharanthus

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Catharanthus, commonly called vinca or Madagascar periwinkle, is a heat- and drought-tolerant tender annual with glossy foliage and attractive five-petaled flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, or white

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Catharanthus care requirements

These care conditions are most relevant to overwatering in Catharanthus. Check each one as a potential cause.

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Water
Drought-tolerant once established; water when soil surface is dry; reduce watering in winter
compost
Soil
Well-draining soil; prefers slightly sandy or lean soil; avoid waterlogged conditions
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Humidity
Low to moderate; tolerates dry air well
symptoms

Symptoms to look for in Catharanthus

  • fiber_manual_recordYellowing lower leaves
  • fiber_manual_recordSoggy soil
  • fiber_manual_recordAlgae or moss on soil surface
  • fiber_manual_recordRoot rot
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Common causes in Catharanthus

  • fiber_manual_recordToo frequent watering
  • fiber_manual_recordPoor drainage
  • fiber_manual_recordWrong pot size
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How to diagnose overwatering in Catharanthus

Push finger 2 inches into soil. If wet, overwatering is occurring.

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How to treat overwatering in Catharanthus

Allow to dry out completely. Check drainage holes. Remove rotted roots and repot.

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Preventing overwatering in Catharanthus

Always check soil before watering. Use pots with drainage holes. Choose well-draining compost.

Other Catharanthus problems