Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Stick your finger into the soil to check for moisture.
- Feel the leaves to see if they are soft or brittle.
- Check the location to see if it gets direct midday sun.
Likely causes
Underwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The entire plant looks wilted and the soil feels dry to the touch several inches down.
What to do: Give the plant a deep watering immediately. Ensure you provide enough water to soak the root zone thoroughly every 3 to 7 days.
Heat stress
PossibleHow to tell: The plant droops during the hottest part of the day but perks up again in the cool of the evening.
What to do: Ensure the plant is in a spot with partial to full shade. If it is in too much sun, consider moving it or adding a shade cloth.
When to worry
If the plant stays droopy even after you water it, the roots may be damaged. If it perks up after a drink, it is just thirsty.
Stopping it coming back
Maintain a consistent watering schedule and use mulch to keep the soil cool and moist.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your perennial honesty.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- How much water does it need?
- Keep the soil moist like a wrung out sponge. Do not let it sit in standing water, though.
- Can I overwater it?
- Yes, if the soil is constantly soggy, the roots can rot. Always check the soil before adding more water.
More problems with Perennial honesty
Back to the Perennial honesty guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.