Has your houseplant dried up and in poor health? Revive it with these 3 gardening tips

While it’s important to rehydrate the plant, where it’s placed also matters for a full recovery. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

• Revive dehydrated houseplants by bottom watering for better soil absorption
• Trim dead leaves to encourage healthy new growth and faster recovery
• Move the plant to adequate light, considering its specific light sensitivity

Did our AI summary help?

Houseplants require care, even if they are considered low-maintenance. However, life can get hectic, and there's a chance you may forget to water them. This neglect turns the leaves dry and brittle. However, experts suggest you shouldn’t give up hope and discard them. It is easy to revive them with three tricks. While it may not work on plants that require constant attention, it can work for those that are dehydrated and lack water. Ensure ruling out other issues, such as pests, overwatering, and improper lighting, as they show similar symptoms.

How to revive dying houseplants that have not been watered

Rehydrate dry soil with the bottom watering method

The two signs of underwatering are dried and brittle leaves. These indicate the soil has become dry. While you may be tempted to use a watering can to moisten the soil, it won’t be as effective. What it needs is better absorption from the surface, which is evenly distributed.

Also read: 9 longest living indoor plants that require minimal maintenance

For this, place the pot into a sink or bathtub and soak the bottom half in water. If the pot has drainage holes, you don’t need to take it out, but if it doesn’t, you will have to remove it gently. Avoid soaking the plant for more than 30 minutes, move it out of the water, and allow it to drain.

Trim dead leaves for a healthy foliage

Unwatered plants tend to look unhealthy. They droop and wilt, and their foliage shows signs of damage. They may even have scorched leaves due to direct sunlight and no watering. In this case, use your pruning tools to trim the discoloured and shrivelled foliage. This helps in new healthy growth and faster recovery. Follow the one-third pruning rule to be gentle to the plant’s roots.

Move the plant so it receives adequate light

While it’s important to rehydrate the plant, where it’s placed also matters for a full recovery. Checking the growing conditions is just as important. Moving the plant to brighter light will support its recovery, especially when it has been neglected for long. However, some plants are sensitive to light. They should be placed accordingly in your home. It's best to acquaint yourself with your plant's needs for proper care.

Also read: 8 indoor plants that purify air in your bedroom in the night

FAQs on reviving a plant that has dried up:

Q. Can a dried-up plant be revived?

Yes, if the roots or stem are still alive.

Q. How do I check if the plant is dead or alive?

Scratch the stem—green inside means it’s alive.

Q. What is the first step to revive a dried plant?

Water it deeply and move it to indirect sunlight.

Q. Should I remove dried leaves and branches?

Yes, pruning helps the plant focus on new growth.

Q. Can overwatering kill a dried plant further?

Yes, too much water can rot weak roots.