How to Identify and Save Overwatered Lavender
Lavender's health depends on the right moisture balance. This guide helps you interpret your plant's distress signals and restore its arid-loving nature.
Lavender is native to the arid hillsides of the Mediterranean, where it thrives in dry, gritty soil with infrequent rainfall. Because of its origins, gardeners often cause issues with excessive care, particularly overwatering. This is a common problem for the drought-tolerant herb.
Signs of an Overwatered Lavender Plant
One of the earliest signs of overwatering is the yellowing of leaves, which begins at the base of the plant and moves upward. Unlike underwatering, where leaves turn brown and crispy, overwatering results in soft, yellow foliage. The plant may also appear wilted or droopy. This is a misleading sign caused by distressed roots that are unable to function in waterlogged soil.
More severe symptoms include stems near the soil line feeling soft and mushy, a sign of tissue decay. This condition often accompanies a sour or rotten odor from the soil, which is a direct result of root rot. Root rot is a fungal condition that thrives in overly wet conditions and attacks the root system. A lack of new growth or stunted development also points to a plant struggling with too much moisture.
How to Save Overwatered Lavender
To save an overwatered lavender, you must address the root system. Begin by carefully removing the plant from its container or garden bed. Gently loosen the soil around the root ball to expose the entire root system for inspection.
Once the roots are exposed, differentiate between healthy and rotted sections. Healthy lavender roots are firm and off-white, while rotted roots are dark, mushy, and break apart easily. Using clean, sterilized pruning shears, trim away every part of the root system that shows signs of decay.
After trimming, provide the plant with a fresh growing medium. Select a new pot with ample drainage holes and fill it with a fast-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix. You can also amend standard potting soil with sand or perlite to increase porosity. Replant the lavender at its original depth, but wait several days before watering to allow the roots to heal.
Proper Care to Prevent Overwatering
To prevent overwatering, use a “soak and dry” method. Water the soil thoroughly, then allow it to dry out completely before watering again. You can check for dryness by inserting your finger about two inches into the soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water.
Lavender must be planted in well-draining, alkaline soil. A sandy or gritty mix allows water to pass through quickly. When planting in containers, choose pots with multiple drainage holes. Terra cotta pots are a good option as the porous material helps wick moisture from the soil.
Lavender requires at least six to eight hours of direct sun each day. Sunlight promotes vigorous growth and flowering and also helps to dry out the soil between waterings. Placing your lavender in a sunny location helps maintain the dry conditions it needs.