overwatering and Gloxinia
Quick answer
If overwatering is what's going on with your Gloxinia, the most likely cause is: Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) grows from a tuber that sits in constantly damp soil, and excess moisture around the tuber and crown is the leading cause of rot; the same soil that holds the velvety leaves upright when correctly moist becomes waterlogged when watered too often or with cold water, suffocating the roots and turning the tuber soft.
Start here:
- 1. Test the soil by squeezing a handful into a ball — if it falls apart when touched, water is needed; otherwise leave it alone, because gloxinias depend more on proper watering than on any other single factor.
- 2. Start the dormant tuber in vermiculite rather than wet potting soil to avoid rot, then shift it into regular potting mix in at least a 5-inch pot once new growth is established, handling new roots quickly and gently.
Why overwatering happens to Gloxinia
gloxinia
Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) grows from a tuber that sits in constantly damp soil, and excess moisture around the tuber and crown is the leading cause of rot; the same soil that holds the velvety leaves upright when correctly moist becomes waterlogged when watered too often or with cold water, suffocating the roots and turning the tuber soft.
How to correct overwatering on Gloxinia
- 1
Test the soil by squeezing a handful into a ball — if it falls apart when touched, water is needed; otherwise leave it alone, because gloxinias depend more on proper watering than on any other single factor.
- 2
Start the dormant tuber in vermiculite rather than wet potting soil to avoid rot, then shift it into regular potting mix in at least a 5-inch pot once new growth is established, handling new roots quickly and gently.
- 3
Always water from below by standing the pot in a bowl of tepid water until the surface of the soil becomes moist, then remove and let it drain so no water falls on the large, hairy leaves.
Keep overwatering from repeating on this Gloxinia
Use open, porous soil, keep the plant in bright light out of direct sun, and water with tepid water only from beneath; after flowering gradually reduce watering and store the dry tubers in a cool, frost-free place over winter.