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Preventing Overwatering

jacksonsrule Apr 26, 2004 02:18 PM

My Shefflera is not drying out enough. With three sprayings
a day and my auto-mister, I just can't keep the soil dry.
It's in bad shape because of this.

Anyone know of any good tricks for keeping spray/mister
water from completely drowning potted plants?

Replies (5)

chamsrcool Apr 26, 2004 06:52 PM

try adding more plants to it....hehe....creeping ficus uses tons of water when in good growing conditions i had to water about twice a day just to keep the soil moist.

also add some drain holes

lele Apr 27, 2004 10:59 AM

make sure there is good drainage in the pot and it is never sitting in a puddle - raise it if you can. Overwatering is sure to kill a scheff. You can also put a plastic bag, towel or something else on top of the soil when you mist (if this is feasible) and remove later. Thsi will minimize the absorption.
-----
0.1 veiled - Luna
0.2 green anoles Jaida & Jetta
0.1 brown anole - Jamaica the j sisters were sent to freedom last month
0.2 house geckos - Gaia & Tia (MIA
0.2 felines - Kyndra and Líta

jacksonsrule Apr 27, 2004 11:18 AM

Yeah, I actually have rocks in the drain pan, under the pot, to allow for more drain room. It never sits in standing water, but the soil is always moist. I read that you should allow them to dry out between waterings and that's just not happening. I also thought of putting a towel over the soil, but thought that may inhibit aeration. Thanks for the input.

sebastian021 Apr 27, 2004 02:31 PM

you need to repot the plant, go to home depot or garden supply and get a bag of perlite. It helps prevent compaction, but also promotes good drainage. i would repot your plant with half perlite, half soil, if your worried about your cam eating the perlite, put a layer of rocks on top.

jacksonsrule Apr 27, 2004 02:54 PM

Thanks for the advice, I will give it a shot.

I actually do have rocks on top of the soil already.

Thanks!

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