Leaching Houseplants: Removing Salt Buildup from Potting Soil

Fertilizer salts accumulate in potting soil, eventually harming roots. Leaching—flushing with water—restores soil health. Simple, essential maintenance every 4-6 months.

Signs of Salt Buildup

White crust on soil surface or around drainage holes. Symptoms: brown leaf tips, wilting, slowed growth, leaf loss. Severe buildup kills roots by reverse osmosis.

How to Leach

1. Gently scrape off visible surface crust (max ¼ inch soil removal).
2. Take plant to sink, tub, or outdoors where water drains freely.
3. Slowly pour warm water—twice the pot's volume (1 gallon for ½ gallon pot).
4. Water dissolves salts and carries them out drainage holes.

Leach every 4-6 months for healthy, salt-free soil.