Question 1

How do I tell the difference between overwatering and underwatering?

Accepted Answer

Check the soil, not the leaves. Overwatered plants have wet soil, soft yellow leaves, and may smell musty. Underwatered plants have bone-dry soil pulling away from the pot, crispy brown leaf edges, and leaves that perk up within hours of watering. The finger test solves this in seconds.

Question 2

Why are my plant leaves turning brown at the tips?

Accepted Answer

Brown tips usually mean underwatering, low humidity, or salt buildup from tap water or excess fertiliser. Check soil moisture first. If soil is fine, flush the pot with clean water to remove accumulated salts. In Mumbai, tap water with high TDS is a common cause.

Question 3

Can a sunburned plant recover?

Accepted Answer

The burned leaves will not heal. Those white or brown bleached patches are dead tissue and will stay that way. However, the plant itself usually recovers if moved to appropriate light. New healthy growth will replace the damaged leaves over several weeks.

Question 4

Why do my plants wilt in the afternoon even though I watered in the morning?

Accepted Answer

This is often temporary heat-stress wilting. When temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius, plants close their stomata to conserve water. If the plant recovers by evening, it is not a watering problem. Provide afternoon shade instead of more water.

Question 5

How long does transplant shock last?

Accepted Answer

Most plants recover within 1-2 weeks. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, provide shade for the first 3-5 days, and avoid fertilising for at least 2 weeks. If wilting persists beyond 3 weeks, check for root damage.

Question 6

Is it normal for plants to drop leaves during monsoon?

Accepted Answer

Some leaf drop is normal due to reduced sunlight and high humidity. But if more than a quarter of leaves drop, or dropped leaves show spots or mold, the plant may have a fungal disease or waterlogging problem that needs attention.

Plant Stress in Home Gardens: How to Identify and Fix Environmental Problems

Plant Stress in Home Gardens: How to Identify and Fix Environmental Problems