Purple-Stemmed Annuals in Planters: Second Opinion on Soil and Watering

Another take on the same purple-stem issue: check for drainage holes, use granular fertilizer (like Espoma Flower-tone), and water by weight.

Water by Weight Method

1. Water until soil is saturated; let sit 5–10 minutes.
2. Pour off excess from saucer.
3. Lift pot—it should feel heavy.
4. Don't water again until pot feels significantly lighter.

Outdoors: check daily. Indoors: every 3–10 days. Frequency depends on sun, wind, temperature, plant type.

Combine fresh soil, proper drainage, granular feed, and weight-based watering for recovery.