Gardeners often say, "Flowers die from overwatering, not from neglect," and this is no exaggeration! Especially for beginners, who tend to fear that their plants might dry out and end up watering them every day. As a result, the flowers turn yellow, rot, and eventually have to be thrown away. Today, let's talk about five types of flowers that are most "sensitive to water." If you learn how to care for them properly, you'll save half your plants from dying!
Clivia (Kaffir Lily): This plant looks elegant but its roots are quite "delicate." Its roots are thick and fleshy, like a radish, capable of storing a lot of water. If the potting soil remains constantly moist, these fleshy roots can't breathe and will rot within a week. The leaves will start turning yellow from the edges and feel soft and limp. When caring for Clivia, remember to water only when the soil surface is dry to a depth of 2 cm. Water thoroughly, but avoid letting the pot sit in water. On rainy days, move it indoors to prevent the roots from sitting in water.
Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): You might wonder, "Isn’t pothos a water-loving plant? How can it be killed by overwatering?" Actually, pothos is "moisture-loving but water-sensitive." Its roots are more delicate than Clivia's and can't handle standing water. Many people use glass pots without drainage holes for pothos, which causes water to accumulate at the bottom. The roots are soaked in water for too long, leading to root rot, yellowing leaves, and rapid leaf drop. Remember, water pothos sparingly. In a well-ventilated place, water it once a week. If ventilation is poor, water once every 10 to 15 days.
Aloe Vera: Known for being "drought-tolerant but water-sensitive," aloe vera is a desert plant with leaves that store water, much like a small reservoir. If you water it daily and the soil remains moist, the roots will rot quickly. The leaves will soften from the base, shrink when touched, and slowly turn black. Caring for aloe vera is easy: wait until the potting soil is completely dry before watering, and then water thoroughly. Place it in a sunny spot, and it will mostly take care of itself.
Money Tree (Pachira Aquatica): Many people keep a money tree for good luck, but it’s also a common victim of "overwatering." The roots are weak, and they are often planted in garden soil, which has poor drainage. If you water too much, the water won't seep through, and the roots will suffocate and rot quickly. The leaves will turn yellow from the top and eventually fall off. In severe cases, the whole tree may die. To care for a money tree, remember not to water too frequently. Water when the top 3-5 cm of soil is dry, water thoroughly, and place it in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight.
For these water-sensitive plants, it's better to water less than too much. When you're a beginner gardener, focus on not overwatering your plants. As you gain experience, you'll be able to grow lush, healthy plants!
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