overwatering and Asparagus Fern
Quick answer
If overwatering is what's going on with your Asparagus Fern, the most likely cause is: When Asparagus setaceus is kept in compost that is constantly waterlogged, the plant wilts even though it has plenty of water, because the saturated compost drives oxygen out of the root zone and the fine, tuberous roots begin to die back; the reference book warns that overwatering is more dangerous than underwatering because it kills the plant more quickly.
Start here:
- 1. Stop watering and slide the rootball out of the pot to inspect the roots; healthy roots are firm and white, while waterlogged roots turn soft and dark.
- 2. Wrap the rootball in newspaper or paper towels to wick out excess moisture, replacing the paper until it comes away dry, then repot into fresh compost.
Why overwatering happens to Asparagus Fern
Asparagus setaceus
When Asparagus setaceus is kept in compost that is constantly waterlogged, the plant wilts even though it has plenty of water, because the saturated compost drives oxygen out of the root zone and the fine, tuberous roots begin to die back; the reference book warns that overwatering is more dangerous than underwatering because it kills the plant more quickly.
How to correct overwatering on Asparagus Fern
- 1
Stop watering and slide the rootball out of the pot to inspect the roots; healthy roots are firm and white, while waterlogged roots turn soft and dark.
- 2
Wrap the rootball in newspaper or paper towels to wick out excess moisture, replacing the paper until it comes away dry, then repot into fresh compost.
- 3
Hold off watering for a few weeks and only keep the compost just moist, keeping the plant out of direct sun while it recovers.
Keep overwatering from repeating on this Asparagus Fern
Water Asparagus setaceus only when the top 2-3 cm (1 in) of compost has dried out, never let the pot sit in standing water, and reduce watering further during the winter rest period.