Some plants love a regular drink—but many don’t. In fact, overwatering is one of the easiest ways to kill your houseplants, especially the lesser-known varieties that prefer dry spells. Just because a plant looks lush doesn’t mean it’s thirsty.
If you're unknowingly drowning your plants with love, this list is your wake-up call. Here are 9 unique plants you’re probably watering way too much.
String of Pearls
This trailing succulent may look delicate, but it prefers drought conditions. Its bead-like leaves store water, so overwatering can cause them to shrivel and fall off. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
Haworthia
Often mistaken for a mini aloe, Haworthia thrives in dry environments. It has shallow roots that are extremely sensitive to excess moisture. Water sparingly—about once every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on your climate.
Ponytail Palm
Despite the name, this isn’t a true palm—it’s a succulent! The bulbous base stores water, so it only needs a good soak every few weeks. Overwatering can lead to a soft, mushy trunk and eventual rot.
Lithops (Living Stones)
These tiny, rock-like succulents are extremely sensitive to overwatering. In fact, they need almost no water during their dormancy periods. Too much water can cause them to split or die entirely.
Rhipsalis (Mistletoe Cactus)
Unlike typical cacti, Rhipsalis grows in tropical forests, but it still prefers drier soil. It absorbs moisture from the air and hates sitting in wet conditions. Water it lightly and only when the soil feels completely dry.
Sansevieria ‘Whale Fin’
This rare snake plant variety has one huge, paddle-shaped leaf and an even lower tolerance for moisture than its common cousin. It’s slow-growing and easily overwhelmed by soggy soil. Water sparingly and provide well-draining soil.
Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
This trailing succulent is gorgeous—but very picky about moisture. Its fleshy, tear-drop leaves fall off easily when stressed by too much water. Keep it in a terracotta pot and water only when bone dry.
Euphorbia trigona (African Milk Tree)
This striking cactus-like plant looks hardy, but it’s highly sensitive to wet roots. It stores water in its thick stems and prefers to dry out between waterings. Too much water causes leaf drop and root rot.
Hoya Kerrii (Sweetheart Plant)
With its adorable heart-shaped leaves, this plant is often sold as a Valentine’s Day novelty. But it’s also a semi-succulent that doesn’t like frequent watering. Too much moisture can cause yellowing and soft spots on its thick leaves.
Sometimes, the most exotic and beautiful plants are also the easiest to overwater. Just because they look dramatic doesn’t mean they’re high-maintenance. Knowing their true needs is key—so ditch the watering can and let these stunners breathe.
Comments
No Comments