Why Post-Monsoon is a Danger Zone
After weeks of rain, the soil in your pots and garden beds is likely waterlogged. Even as the rain stops, high humidity slows down evaporation, meaning the soil stays wet for much longer than in the dry summer months. Your plants, which may have been
in survival mode, are now primed for a growth spurt, but their roots are sitting in soggy, oxygen-deprived soil. Continuing to water with the same frequency as you did before the rains is a common mistake that can quickly lead to root rot and other fatal issues.
Spot the Signs of Overwatering
The symptoms of overwatering can be confusingly similar to underwatering, which makes diagnosis tricky. The most common signs of an overwatered plant include yellowing leaves, especially starting from the bottom of the plant, and leaves that feel soft or limp even when the soil is wet. You might also notice mushy stems near the base, a sour or musty smell from the soil, or even mould growing on the topsoil. Unlike underwatered plants, whose leaves often feel dry and crispy, overwatered leaves will droop while still feeling moist.
Master the Finger Test
The most reliable way to know if your plant needs water is to check the soil manually. Stop watering on a fixed schedule and start watering based on the plant's actual needs. The 'finger test' is your best tool: stick your index finger about one to two inches into the soil. If the soil feels moist or sticks to your finger, hold off on watering. If it feels dry to the touch, it's time to give your plant a drink. For larger pots, you may need to check a little deeper to get an accurate reading. This simple habit is more effective than any calendar.
Drainage Is Your Best Friend
Good drainage is non-negotiable, especially after the monsoon. Ensure that all your pots have unobstructed drainage holes at the bottom. If pots are sitting in decorative saucers, be sure to empty any collected water immediately after watering. Elevating pots on feet or bricks can also improve airflow and allow excess water to escape. If you suspect your soil itself is too dense, you can amend it. Loosening the topsoil with a small fork can help aeration. For future potting, consider adding materials like sand, perlite, or cocopeat to your garden soil to create a lighter, more free-draining mix.
Adjust Watering and Pruning
With the change in season, your watering technique should also change. Water plants in the morning, which allows any moisture on the leaves to evaporate during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. After the intense growth during the monsoon, this is also an excellent time for pruning. Remove any yellowing, dead, or diseased leaves and branches. This not only cleans up the plant's appearance but also improves air circulation around the stems and base, which is crucial for preventing fungal growth in the humid post-monsoon climate.
A Note on Fertilizing
While post-monsoon is a growing season, you must be cautious with fertilizer. Heavy rains can wash away nutrients from the soil, but applying fertilizer to already waterlogged soil can do more harm than good. Drenched roots cannot absorb nutrients effectively, and adding fertilizer can 'burn' them. The best practice is to wait until the soil has had a chance to dry out slightly, about 10 to 15 days after the last heavy rain. Focus on fixing the water issue first. Once the soil is healthy, you can resume feeding your plants with a balanced, organic compost or a slow-release fertilizer to replenish lost nutrients and support new growth.
