Should I water more if it is hot?

Yes, check the soil more frequently during heat waves. You may need to water every 3 days instead of every 7.

Yes, if the soil stays soggy for too long, the roots will suffocate. Always ensure your pot has good drainage.

Why is my deadly nightshade wilting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger one inch into the soil to check moisture.
Feel the leaves to see if they are dry or crisp.
Check the location to see if it is getting too much direct sun.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry and crumbly to the touch, and the stems look limp. The plant will often perk up within a few hours of watering.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until water runs out of the drainage holes. Check the soil every 3 to 7 days and water whenever the top inch feels dry.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant droops during the hottest part of the day even if the soil is moist. The leaves may feel warm or look slightly scorched.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with more partial shade during the afternoon. Ensure it has good airflow to help it cool down.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your deadly nightshade

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the plant stays droopy even after watering and cooling down, the roots may be damaged. This is a serious sign that requires immediate inspection.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and provide protection from intense afternoon sun. Mulching the base can help keep the soil moisture steady.

Deadly nightshade: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your deadly nightshade and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I water more if it is hot?: Yes, check the soil more frequently during heat waves. You may need to water every 3 days instead of every 7.
Can I overwater it?: Yes, if the soil stays soggy for too long, the roots will suffocate. Always ensure your pot has good drainage.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my deadly nightshade wilting?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your deadly nightshade?