Lesson 1
Performing a Root Zone Inspection
Check root health and moisture levels without damaging your plant.
Evaluate Soil Moisture
Stick your finger two inches into the soil. If it feels wet, your plant is drowning. Stop watering immediately. If the soil is bone dry, it may be dehydrated.
Assess Drainage Paths
Lift your pot. Do you see water pooling in the saucer? Empty it after 15 minutes. Check if the drainage holes are clogged with soil or roots. If blocked, repot the plant into a container with clear, open holes. Use a well-draining potting mix that includes perlite or grit to prevent future water retention.
Monitor Root Health
If the plant persists in yellowing, gently slide it out of the pot. Healthy roots are firm and pale; rotten roots are mushy, dark and smell foul. If you spot rot, trim away the decayed segments using sterilised shears. Repot in fresh, dry soil and wait three days before watering again to allow roots to heal.