Overwatered vs. Underwatered Plants: Read the Soil and Leaf Pattern

Do not diagnose overwatering or underwatering from a drooping or yellow leaf alone. Check the potting mix below the surface and compare the pot's weight: wet mix plus wilting or yellowing points toward excess moisture; dry mix plus a lighter pot, curling, wilting, or browning points toward drought. Because wilting occurs in both, confirm drainage and inspect roots when wet-soil evidence persists.