Overwatering is a major issue for growing haworthia succulents. Once overwatered, the plant succumbs to root rot, making it difficult to recover. However, you can save the plant if you act quickly and take the right steps.
In the following guide, let's learn more about the ways to save your haworthia.
How To Save An Overwatered Haworthia
The most simple solution to revive an overwatered haworthia is to let it dry out. This means you should stop watering the plant for a few days until its soil dries.
Alternatively, repot the plant into a pot with fresh, well-draining soil. It will ensure efficient growing conditions for the stressed succulent.
These are the two recommended steps to take if you notice that your haworthia is getting overwatered. But there is more to this process.
So, let's look at them in more detail.
1. Examine The Plant
The primary examination is the key to determining if your plant has been overwatered. Look for wilting, which is a classic indicator that the plant needs repotting or a period of rest.
This is what an overwatered haworthia looks like -
Source - Reddit
You should also check the soil during this process. If it's too wet or soggy, it's usually a sign that you're overwatering the plant.
2. Remove It From The Existing Pot
Once you confirm that the plant is overwatered, you should carefully remove it from its current pot and examine its roots. You should consider further actions if you see any rot or decay signs.
Of course, this depends on the size and condition of the plant. Sometimes, it may be best to discard the plant and start from scratch with a new one.
But if the haworthia is in mint condition, you can use a sharp knife to cut away the damaged roots.
3. Allow The Plant To Rest
Once you have removed the overwatered haworthia from its pot and cut away the damaged roots, it's time for rest.
Note: You can also remove any damaged or dead leaves from the plant.
At this stage, you can either put the plant back in the same pot with new soil or repot it into a fresh pot. Either way, it's important to let the plant rest for a few days to recover from the stress of being overwatered.
Once it has rested, you can begin watering the plant again. But monitor the soil and water appropriately, so you don't make the same mistake again.
4. Repot The Plant
As mentioned above, repotting is necessary for this process.
If you feel the plant is in absolutely worse condition, you should immediately move it to a new pot. This way, you will have fresh new soil to work with, and the plant can regain its strength.
You can also divide any pups while performing tasks, as it will allow you to have more plants.
Check out the following video to learn more about the repotting process -
In addition to these tips, you should ensure proper drainage for your haworthia. You can use a soil blend that is rich in organic matter, which will promote root growth.
5. Keep It In The Sun
Finally, the plant needs to receive adequate sunlight after repotting. Succulents are known to thrive in sunlight, so you should also find a similar place for this plant.
Ideally, you should keep the plant in a sunny area for at least 4-6 hours. But if that's not possible, place the plant near a window with plenty of natural sunlight.
This will do two things - boost the plant's ability to grow, and aid in its recovery. So, that's how you can save an overwatered haworthia plant!
How Often To Water Haworthia?
Depending on the size and growing conditions, you can water your haworthia every ten days. In general, succulent plants need less water than other types of houseplants.
So, it's completely normal for your haworthia to go through periods of dryness and underwatering. But the key is to monitor the plant closely and adjust your water schedule based on its needs.
In winter, reduce watering frequency slightly to account for the lower light levels and cooler temperatures. And in summer, you may need to increase it accordingly.
According to the University of Minnesota, succulents should be watered modestly and supplied with sufficient sunlight. You can follow the same mantra for watering your haworthia - give it enough water to keep the soil moist, but never overwater.
Haworthia Watering Schedule -
| Weather Conditions | Watering Frequency |
|---|---|
| Summer | Every 1-2 Weeks |
| Winter | Once A Month |
| Rainy | Every 2-3 Weeks |
| General Conditions | Every 2 Weeks |
Expert Tips
Here are some more useful tips to revive your haworthia -
- Even if you're watering the plant in long intervals, you shouldn't drench the soil every time. It will only lead to overwatering and root rot. Instead, water the plant until small drops appear on the drainage saucer. This will indicate that the soil has enough water without being too saturated.
- Do not water the plant from the top. Water it at the base to keep the potting mix moist.
- Keep the plant in a decently ventilated area to avoid excess moisture buildup. It's also good to rotate the plant regularly, as this will promote even growth and prevent any one side from getting too much light.
- Do not fertilize the plant when it's under stress. Instead, wait until it's fully recovered before feeding it any nutrients.
- Mulch the plant so that the soil retains its moisture for a long, and you don't have to water it too often. To mulch the plant, you can use peat moss, coconut chips, wood shavings, or other organic matter.
FAQs
One of the most obvious signs that your haworthia is overwatered is wilting or drooping leaves or stems. This can signify that the roots have become waterlogged and cannot absorb more water.
Other signs of overwatering include discolored, mushy, or rotting roots; brown spots on the leaves; and a generally dull appearance of the plant.
Depending on its severity, it takes around 2-3 weeks or more for an overwatered plant to recover fully.
It's highly unlikely that such a plant will recover on its own. Since it's already under a lot of stress and unable to absorb water, the roots may become infected or damaged.
In order for the plant to recover, it's important to address the underlying cause of overwatering and reduce moisture in the soil.
The haworthia leaves turn yellow because of various factors, such as having too much or too little water. Overfertilizing and overexposure to sunlight can also cause the yellowing of the leaves.
Yes, a succulent can recover from such situations. You will just need to follow good care practices to reduce moisture in the soil and promote growth.
Over To You
Overwatered haworthias can be saved if you take action immediately. However, it's best not to let the situation reach this stage in the first place.
Monitor your haworthia regularly, and adjust its watering schedule as needed. This will help you manage the moisture level of the soil, which is crucial to the plant's growth.
Meanwhile, if you have any further questions about haworthia care, feel free to leave a comment in the box below. I'd be happy to help! If you liked this article, don't forget to share it with your fellow haworthia enthusiasts!
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