Assess the Damage: Excess fertilizer can cause salt buildup in the soil, leading to root damage and nutrient imbalances. Check your houseplants for signs of over-fertilization, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, stunted growth, or salt deposits on the soil surface.
Flush the Soil: To remove excess salts and restore the soil's balance, thoroughly water the affected plants until water drains freely from the bottom of the pot. Repeat this flushing process several times over the course of a few days to leach out the accumulated salts.
Repot if Necessary: If the soil is severely compacted or the roots are visibly damaged, consider repotting the plant into fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently loosen the roots and remove any damaged or rotted portions before transferring the plant to its new container.
Trim Damaged Foliage: Prune away any yellowed, browned, or wilted leaves and stems to encourage new growth and redirect the plant's energy toward recovery. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and prevent further stress to the plant.
Adjust Watering Routine: Over-fertilized plants may be more sensitive to water stress, so adjust your watering routine accordingly. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions and root rot, but avoid letting the soil become completely dry.
Monitor Light and Temperature: Ensure your houseplants are receiving the appropriate amount of light and maintain consistent temperatures within their preferred range. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can exacerbate stress and hinder recovery.
Use a Balanced Fertilizer: Once your plants have recovered, resume fertilizing with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength. Apply fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid over-fertilizing in the future to prevent recurrence of the issue.
Practice Prevention: To prevent over-fertilization in the future, follow a regular fertilization schedule based on your plant's needs, and always dilute fertilizer to the recommended concentration. Additionally, periodically flush the soil with water to remove excess salts and maintain soil health.