Avoid waterlogging on indoor plants

How does waterlogging damage indoor plants?

Waterlogging does not only occur when a plant is poured over it. If the irrigation water cannot run off, the substrate is permanently moist and prevents the plant from absorbing oxygen and minerals. The roots literally suffocate in the wet earth.

Recognize symptoms

It is not always easy for a layperson to correctly interpret the symptoms of his indoor plants. Most gardeners are particularly mistaken when it comes to waterlogging. Because the signs of root rot are similar to those of drought. Wilted or discolored leaves will also appear in the event of overwatering. Many interpret this as a sign of an increased need for water and aggravate the damage caused by additional water.

Avoid waterlogging

You can prevent waterlogging with the following measures:

Create a drain

Thanks to a drainage, the irrigation water flows off more easily and does not collect at the bottom of the pot. We recommend a layer of gravel, sand,

Expanded clay(€ 16.36 at Amazon *) or granules that you work into the pot before planting. It is very important that your bucket has a hole in the bottom from which the excess water can run out. Don't just take care of the pot alone, don't forget to pour stagnant water out of the saucer regularly. The drainage is laid as the lowest substrate layer. Only then does the actual substrate follow.

The thumb test

For the thumb test, press the tip of your thumb a few centimeters into the earth. Does the substrate still feel wet? Then the plant does not need to be watered again. You only need to water the next time the top layer of substrate has dried.

Choose a suitable substrate

So that the irrigation water does not build up, the soil should be permeable. Coconut soil is highly recommended because it stores liquid on the one hand, but still allows it to seep away. Conventional Potting soil should be loosened up occasionally with a small rake or a wooden stick.