Expert: Mike Mascio - 9/13/2007

Question
Hi Mike,
My Husband bought me an azalea tree for our wedding anniversary this past august. I'm afraid it may be dying or have already died.  I repotted it shortly after he gave it to me, put it inside near a sunny window and it was doing well for a couple of days.  then my husband thought it looked like the flowers were wilting and he watered it.  Not knowing that, I also watered it a couple of days later.  it appeared to be over saturated so i put it outside to get morning sun/afternoon shade and dry out but now it is turning brown and crispy.  Is there anyway to bring it back or is it done?  Any help you could offer would be great.

Thanks,
Kelly

Answer
Kelly, the number one reason indoor plants and container-grown plants do poorly is overwatering. In our zeal to pamper the plant, we literally kill them with kindness.

Plants should only be watered when necessary. I never place my plants on a watering schedule. In most cases, I only water my indoor plants once every 10-14 days, and even then only if they require it.

When a plant is watered too frequently, the roots suffocate, making it difficult for the roots to absorb oxygen and nutrients. You should check the soil with either a moisture meter (these can be purchased at any garden center) or by checking 3" below the surface. If the soil is moist, do not water.

Also, when watering, water very deeply; to the point where the water seeps from the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. Frequent, but shallow watering, causes the roots to reach for the surface instead of straight down. Once again, this makes it difficult for the roots to absorb the nutrients necessary for good growth.

I would remove the azalea from its current pot, allow the soil to dry for several hours, and then transplant it back to the pot after the pot has thoroughly dried. Do not water again for several days.

Hopefully, you should see some signs of recovery. If not, the plant may have already been damaged beyond saving. I certainly hope that's not the case.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike