The Finger-Check Method

Feel the soil Before reaching for the watering can, push your index finger at least 3 to 5 cm into the potting mix. Do not rely on surface appearance, as the top layer dries much faster than the root zone. If the soil feels damp or cool, do not water. If it is dry and crumbly, the plant needs hydration. ## Understand signs Learn the difference between wilting from drought and wilting from rot. Dry soil usually causes crisp, brown leaf edges and a light-feeling pot. Overwatered plants often show yellowing leaves or mushy stems. If you are ever unsure, wait one more day. Most plants survive a day of underwatering much better than an hour of waterlogged roots, which leads to permanent damage.