To water, or not to water?
KAYLEA HUTSON GateHouse Plus

Houseplants are often the most abused items in a home. Too much water or not enough water, and well, the plants are left to wither away into oblivion.

Debbie Shaughnessy, HGIC information specialist with Clemson University, said the main cause of death for a potted plant is over-watering.

"Roots need both water and oxygen" Shaughnessy wrote in her extension report. "When surrounded by water, [the roots] cannot take up oxygen. These roots may rot and eventually the whole plant may die.

"The symptoms of overwatering and under watering are similar. Both lead to poor root health, root decline and possible death of the plant."

Shaughnessy said the amount and frequency of water needed by plants varies depending upon its type, growth stage, location, the type and size of the pot, soil mix characteristics and weather conditions.

Plants with large or very thin leaves, and those with fine surface roots, require frequent watering, more so than succulent plants with fleshy leaves and stems, which can store water.

While plants need water during a time of growth, less water is needed when it becomes dormant.

When determining if a plant needs water, follow these steps:

• Touch the soil - The most accurate gauge is to water when the potting mixture feels dry to the touch. Stick your finger into the mix up to the first joint; if it is dry at your fingertip it needs water.

• Tap the pot - When the potting mix in a clay pot begins to dry, it shrinks away from the sides of the pot. Rap the side of the pot with the knuckles or a stick. If the sound is dull, the soil is moist; if the sound is hollow, water is needed.

• Estimate weight - As potting mixtures become dry, a definite loss in weight can be observed.

• Judge soil color - Potting mixtures will change from a dark to lighter color as they dry.

When watering a plant, water thoroughly. Apply water until it runs out the bottom of the pot. Shaughnessy said this washes out excess salts and guarantees the bottom portion of the pot- that contains the most roots- receives enough water. Do not let the plant stand in water. Empty the saucer out after watering.

Additionally, she recommends refraining from letting the soil become excessively dry. If this happens and the salt level in the container is high, root damage can take place.

If this happens, Shaughnessy recommends saturating the soil. This can take place by placing the pot in a sink or a bucket of water. After the soil is moist, remove the pot and let it drain completely.

Water temperature should be between 62 and 72 degrees for all houseplants.

Softened water can also damage plants because it contains sodium and chloride.