Why Your Soil Stays Wet (Poor Drainage)
Soil that stays wet causes root rot. The 4 causes are: no drainage holes, compacted soil, overwatering, or a pot saucer holding water.
The 4 Causes
Cause 1: No Drainage Holes
Sign: Water pools on top, never drains. Fix: Drill holes. Or repot.
Cause 2: Compacted Soil
Sign: Soil is dense and heavy. Fix: Mix in perlite or compost.
Cause 3: Overwatering
Sign: You water daily regardless of soil moisture. Fix: Water only when top inch is dry.
Cause 4: Saucer Holding Water
Sign: Pot sits in a saucer of water. Fix: Empty saucer 30 minutes after watering.
The Quick Check
- Holes at bottom? No → drill or repot.
- Water pools on top? → Compacted. Loosen.
- Do you water daily? → Stop.
- Saucer full? → Empty it.
What to Do
- Add drainage holes.
- Mix perlite (1 part to 3 parts soil).
- Water only when top inch is dry.
- Empty saucers.
- If roots are already brown/mushy → trim and repot.
Common Questions
How do I know if soil is too wet? Soggy, smells bad, mold on surface.
Can I fix wet soil without repotting? Yes, if caught early.
How long should soil take to drain? Water should run out the bottom within 1-2 minutes.
Will rocks at the bottom help drainage? No. Myth. Raises the water table.
Can I overwater a plant with drainage? Yes. If soil stays wet, roots suffocate.
Is it too late if roots are brown? Sometimes. Trim and repot. About 50% recover.