Well, let me tell you, I seen a lot of things in my time, but one thing that always gets me is when folks drown their plants. Yes sir, overwatering, that’s what I’m talkin’ about. It’s a common problem, specially for them new to plantin’. They think they’re doin’ good, but they’re killin’ ’em with kindness, as they say.
Now, how can you tell if you’re givin’ your plants too much of the wet stuff? There’s a few signs of overwatering, plain as day, if you know what to look for. First off, look at the leaves. If they’re lookin’ yellow and droopy, like a sad dog’s tail, that’s a big clue. Not always, mind you, but it’s somethin’ to keep an eye on. And if them leaves start fallin’ off like it’s autumn in July, well, somethin’ ain’t right.

Another thing is the soil. You gotta feel that dirt. If it’s always wet, like a swamp, that’s no good. Plants need to breathe, just like us, and their roots can’t do that if they’re always underwater. It’s like tryin’ to breathe through a straw filled with mud. Ain’t gonna work.
- Yellow leaves, that’s a sign of overwatering.
- Droopy leaves, that’s another one.
- Leaves fallin’ off when they shouldn’t.
- Soil that’s always soggy, like a wet sponge.
- Overwatering can cause root rot.
Now, if you see these signs of overwatering, don’t you panic. Sometimes a plant can bounce back, if you catch it in time. Just like people, some plants are tougher than others. But if them roots are all rotted, well, that plant might be a goner. Root rot, that’s a nasty thing. Like a sickness that gets into your bones. Hard to come back from that.
If you been overwatering and the leaves are just a little wilted, not too bad, maybe the plant will be alright. Just let that soil dry out some. Give it a chance to breathe. Don’t be pourin’ no more water on it till it needs it.
One more thing, if you see mold growin’ on top of the soil, that’s a sure sign of overwatering. Nobody wants mold in their house, and plants don’t like it either. It means the soil ain’t dryin’ out like it should. That mold, it’s like a bad cough that just won’t go away.
Overwatering is a problem, I tell ya. It is like loving something to death. That is bad. Too much water can do as much harm as not enough. It’s all about findin’ that balance, like most things in life. Too much of anythin’ ain’t usually good, ‘cept maybe grandkids’ hugs.
So, how do you know when to water? Well, you gotta use your common sense. Stick your finger in the dirt, up to your knuckle. If it feels dry, then it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, leave it be. It ain’t rocket science, just pay attention to your plants. They’ll tell you what they need, if you just listen.
Different plants need different amounts of water, too. Some like it dry, some like it wet. You gotta learn about your plants, just like you learn about your neighbors. Do a little research, or ask someone who knows. Don’t just guess.

And don’t be waterin’ just ’cause it’s Tuesday, or whatever. Water when the plant needs it. That’s the secret. It ain’t about a schedule, it’s about payin’ attention.
Now, some folks, they like to use them fancy waterin’ cans with the long spouts. That’s fine, I reckon. But an old coffee can works just as well. Don’t need nothin’ fancy to give a plant a drink. Just don’t drown ’em! Remember them signs of overwatering.
Remember, overwatering can lead to root rot, and that’s a bad thing. It’s like a disease that eats away at the plant from the inside. You don’t want that, no sir. A healthy plant has healthy roots. That is important to know. Just like a healthy person has a healthy heart.
Keep an eye out for them signs of overwatering, I keep sayin’ it, but it’s important. Yellow leaves, droopy leaves, leaves fallin’ off, soggy soil, mold. If you see these things, ease up on the waterin’. Give your plants a chance to dry out. They’ll thank you for it.
So there you have it. Just remember to use your common sense, pay attention to your plants, and don’t drown ’em. It ain’t hard to keep a plant happy, long as you don’t love it too much, if you know what I mean. A little bit of care goes a long way. You see them signs of overwatering, you fix it. It is not hard.