Certain plants, like azaleas and rhododendrons, like moisture, but not long periods of standing water. There’s a delicate balance between keeping plants sufficiently hydrated and drowning their roots, which can lead to disease. But you can prevent root rot and keep your plants moister longer — all you need is a few sponges.
You should fill your flower pot with sponges before planting #Water #Gardening #Sponges
Root rot is a disease that attacks a plant’s roots when they are overwatered or excess water is unable to drain from the pot. As Elite Tree Care explains, “Drippling conditions prevent roots from taking in all the oxygen they need to live. As oxygen-starved roots die and decay, their rot can spread to healthier roots.”
Once the plant is deprived of oxygen through its roots, you will see wilted leaves, stunted growth, and premature leaf drop. And in some cases, suffocated roots can breed soil fungi that attack the roots.
The best way to prevent root rot is to buy the right pot. Plants that like moisture do best in plastic or glazed ceramic pots to retain water, but they need drainage holes to let excess water out. Water only when needed and follow the recommended amount for your particular plant.
