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Hi my umbrella tree still has wet soil from watering it 22 days ago.… | Foliage Plant Haven | Planta community

Nik

Hi my umbrella tree still has wet soil from watering it 22 days ago. Planta says this is bad, what could be some causes and should I do anything to help it? I saw a new shoot growing today.

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5 comments

  1. Buffy

    Maybe the soil is too heavy and the water isn’t able to drain after watering. You could add some amendments to it… like perlite or orchid bark. You can also aerate the soil just by poking a wooden skewer or knitting needle every once in a while. Do you have your plant in a pot with drainage holes? We all just live and learn in the plant world as we go!🪴

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    • Aroidmama

      Good advice Buffy. I started writing my response a while ago and walked away. When I was ready to post your excellent response was here. I couldn’t agree more.

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    • Buffy

      Thank you.. I learned that from other plant people and Tanner the Planter

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  2. Aroidmama

    That does seem like a long time between watering. They are fairly thirsty plants that should need frequent watering. If the soil remains wet for too long the roots can suffocate. I would check the soil and roots. Sounds like you might need to amend the current soil mix. You can add more perlite or bark to help it get more air to the roots. Definitely, check the roots, but with new growth it’s good today. Root rot takes time. The drying time will vary according to your climate. If you’re in a humid location plants will take longer to dry. I hope this helps? Happy growing!

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  3. Sunny

    That’s a small pot. Make sure it has drainage holes. You can put the plant in a plastic nursery’s pot. Then, use the current pot as a decorative outer pot. I would completely change the soil since it takes weeks to dry. It may have a lot of moss that holds water too well. I would replace the soil with 1/2 standard soil (no peat moss) and 1/2 succulent soil. You want a soil with good drainage that only holds water long enough for the plant to soak it up. The soil should dry out every 5 - 7 days for the current size pot. Ensure there is good airflow around the plant to help dry the soil through evaporation. 🪴🍀

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