Symptoms
- check_circleWilting and drooping
- check_circleDry, crispy leaf edges and tips
- check_circleSoil pulling away from the edges of the pot
- check_circlePot feels very light when lifted
- check_circleBone-dry soil even deep in the pot
- check_circleLeaves becoming brittle and papery
Causes
- arrow_rightWatering too infrequently
- arrow_rightSmall pot dries out faster than expected
- arrow_rightHot, sunny location increases water demand
- arrow_rightRootbound plant — roots absorb water too fast
- arrow_rightSummer heat increasing transpiration
How to Diagnose
Lift the pot — if it's unusually light, the soil is dry. Push a finger deep into the soil. If it's bone dry even 5 cm down, the plant needs water immediately. A peace lily dramatically droops to signal thirst; most other plants show subtler wilting.
Treatment
Water thoroughly — pour water slowly until it drains from the bottom. For very dry soil that repels water, try bottom watering: sit the pot in a tray of water for 20–30 minutes. Most plants recover from underwatering within hours. Remove any crispy dead leaves after recovery.
Prevention
Check soil moisture regularly — ideally when you walk past plants. Keep a consistent routine. During summer, check more frequently. Use self-watering pots or a drip irrigation system for plants that need consistent moisture.
Affected Plants
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