Overwatered plants are susceptible to root rot and other diseases which may kill them. Too much water essentially drowns plants, keeping their roots from obtaining the oxygen that is essential for them to live and prosper. Providing them with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) helps overwatered plants to get additional oxygen and to keep harmful pathogens in the sun.
Problem — Not Enough Oxygen
Plants roots are surrounded by dirt particles, water across the soil particles and air bubbles which provide access to oxygen between the particles. Overwatering plants shrinks these air bubbles, filling them with water rather and reducing the total amount of oxygen available for their roots. If the roots cannot absorb enough of the water to quickly boost the size of the air bubbles again, they will be deprived of oxygen and begin to die within 24 hours, which makes plants susceptible to many different diseases.
The Peroxide Solution
At the first sign of overwatering, drain off any excess fluid and care for the plants using a hydrogen peroxide solution. The hydrogen peroxide releases dissolved oxygen at the roots, replenishing the supply until the plants may absorb some of this water and seams the air bubbles in the ground. Use 2 1/2 teaspoons of regular 3 percent hydrogen peroxide each 1 gallon of water. Apply the solution to plants at each watering till they regain their vigor.
How Hydrogen Peroxide Works
Hydrogen peroxide increases the amount of dissolved oxygen available to the plants, helping them to fight diseases by killing harmful organisms and infectious tissues. Leaving more oxygen available to the crops promotes growth of a strong, wholesome root system. The oxygen released by the hydrogen peroxide breaks down organic materials like roots or leaves which are dead; this prevents them from invading and splitting the plant off. It also suppresses the development of possibly damaging algae.
An Ounce of Prevention
Do not wait till you have troubles using your plants to add hydrogen peroxide to your regular watering routine; use it at each watering to help prevent problems like root rot. Allow the plant to dry out a few before watering; the soil ought to be dry to approximately 2 inches in depth and the grass will feel mild when it is time to water. Keep potted plants out of trays filled with standing water since the ground can absorb that moisture.