November 10, 2026, 12:21 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
When it rains for days, water scarcity for plants shouldn’t really be an issue. After all, the soil is moist, and more water is regularly coming from above. Yet, during prolonged rain, plants can suddenly appear limp or even dry out. Ironically, the excess water might be to blame. myHOMEBOOK explains what’s behind this.
Too Much Water Can Harm the Roots
Prolonged rain becomes problematic, especially when the water cannot sufficiently seep into the ground. This leads to waterlogging. The pores in the soil increasingly fill with water, leaving less oxygen available for the plant roots.
This has consequences: Roots need oxygen for their metabolism. If the soil remains water-saturated for an extended period, particularly fine roots can be damaged and eventually die. The plant can then no longer adequately absorb water and nutrients.
The Paradox: Even though there is more than enough water around the roots, not enough of it reaches the plant. Above ground, symptoms may appear that resemble water scarcity.
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How to Tell if a Plant Is Too Wet
Wilted leaves do not automatically mean a plant needs water. In persistently wet soil, a closer look is warranted. Signs of too much moisture can include:
- limp or wilted leaves despite moist soil
- yellowish discoloration of the leaves
- consistently wet or muddy soil
- water that remains on the surface for a long time after rain
- soft, darkly discolored, or rotting roots
Especially now, it’s important not to water reflexively just because a plant looks wilted. First, check how moist the soil actually is.
In Fall, the Soil Stays Wet Longer
In fall, prolonged rain can become particularly problematic. With dropping temperatures and less sunlight, less water evaporates than on warm summer days. At the same time, many plants grow more slowly and require less water. As a result, already moist soil can remain wet longer.
Whether waterlogging actually occurs depends heavily on the location. Heavy, compacted, or clay-rich soils, for example, allow water to drain less effectively than loose, well-drained soils.
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Check Potted Plants After Heavy Rain Too
Not only plants in beds can be affected. Pots and containers also risk water buildup after prolonged rain. It becomes particularly critical if drainage holes are missing or clogged, or if water remains in the outer pot or saucer.
After extended periods of rain, it’s worth checking and emptying saucers and outer pots if necessary. Also, ensure the drainage holes are clear so excess water can drain away.
Also interesting: Hobby gardeners should water the lawn even after rain
What Garden Owners Can Do During Prolonged Rain
For plants in beds, options are more limited during a rainy period. If waterlogging is noticed, avoid watering the already wet soil further. On very wet areas, try not to walk unnecessarily, as this can further compact the soil.
In the long term, improving the soil structure or drainage at locations where water regularly stands can help. However, which measure is sensible depends on the soil and the plant.