From Seed to Seed:
Plant Science for K-8 Educators

Digging Deeper

Water Woes

Indoor plants growing in low light levels frequently suffer from overwatering. Some houseplants can go for several weeks without needing water. Yet, many students-out of kindness-faithfully water their houseplants once a week-or even once a day! A plant sitting in water for too long will begin to suffer root rot. If too many of the roots are damaged, the plant won't be able to take in enough water, even if there is plenty available in the soil. Always check soil moisture before watering. A general rule of thumb for many plants is to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering.

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