Core checks

  • Weight test: lift the pot — feather-light = underwatered; heavy for days = overwatered.
  • Depth probe: 5–10 cm for small pots, 10–15 cm for large; read the core, not the crust.
  • Root look: papery/brittle = drought; brown/mushy = rot.

Fast fixes

  • Underwatered: bottom-water or soak until bubbles stop, then drain; adjust mix to hold moisture longer.
  • Overwatered: unpot, prune rot, repot in airy mix (base + perlite/pumice + bark); extend intervals and increase light/airflow.

Stabilize rhythm

Water thoroughly, then wait for the root zone to reach your target dryness. Expect longer gaps in winter, shorter in bright summer light.