My Plant Has Yellow Leaves. Am I Overwatering or Underwatering?
This is a question I hear often in my career as a horticulturist, and it's surprisingly complex. It seems like it should be straightforward, right? However, both overwatering and underwatering a houseplant can start with similar symptoms: yellow leaves. When a plant is too dry, its roots begin to die due to lack of water. Conversely, when a plant is too wet, its roots can suffocate and die because the soil lacks adequate air.
So, how can you tell the difference? The best method is to check the soil moisture. Most houseplants prefer to be watered when the top inch or two of the potting mix feels dry to the touch. Also, if you use a saucer or dish to catch excess water, make sure the plant isn't sitting in water for more than 45 minutes.
Fortunately, you don't need to worry too much. If you occasionally forget to water and your plants dry out a bit, it typically doesn't cause long-term damage. The same applies to occasional overwatering. The real concern arises when either condition becomes a consistent pattern, leading to more yellow leaves and overall plant decline.