How often should I check the soil?

Check it every 2 days. This plant is a moisture lover and does not like to dry out at all.

Will my plant recover after drooping?

Yes, it usually bounces back within a few hours of a good drink. If it stays droopy for more than a day after watering, check the roots.

Square-stalked St. John's-wort: drooping, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger an inch into the soil to check for dryness.
Feel the stems to see if they are firm or soft.
Check the location to see if the plant is getting too much direct afternoon sun.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry to the touch and the stems look limp. The leaves may also feel thin or papery.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Keep a consistent schedule of watering every 2 to 4 days.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant droops during the hottest part of the day even if the soil is damp. It usually perks up once the sun goes down.
What to do: Provide some afternoon shade if the plant is in full sun. Ensure the soil stays consistently damp to help the plant manage the heat.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your square-stalked st. john's-wort

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

Worry if the plant stays droopy even after you water it. If the stems are mushy or black at the base, you might have a root issue instead.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a steady watering rhythm and mulch the base to keep the soil moisture stable.

Square-stalked St. John's-wort: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your square-stalked st. john's-wort 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

How often should I check the soil?: Check it every 2 days. This plant is a moisture lover and does not like to dry out at all.
Will my plant recover after drooping?: Yes, it usually bounces back within a few hours of a good drink. If it stays droopy for more than a day after watering, check the roots.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Square-stalked St. John's-wort drooping?