Reviving wilting plants with a TikTok trick: why sushi sticks can be your green thumb's best friend

Potted plants, apart from purifying the air, also add character to the interior. But, what can be done when they start to dry out? Here's a tried and tested trick.

A TikToker has shared a simple yet effective solution to save wilting potted plants: aerate the soil.

Interestingly, ordinary sushi sticks can prove to be very useful in this process. All you need to do is gently insert them into the ground. By doing so, small holes are created that enhance the flow of air to the roots and also minimize the risk of overwatering the plant.

Sushi sticks also help in loosening the soil inside the pot. Too compacted soil, like in long-standing potted plants, can block air and water from reaching the roots, possibly leading to root rot or hindering the overall growth of the plant.

It's worthwhile to mention that aerating the soil doesn't necessarily need to be done using sushi sticks. Other options like straws, wooden skewers, or plastic stirrers, commonly found in a kitchen, could also be convenient alternatives.

There might be numerous reasons behind your plant's wilting. First and foremost, explore whether the soil is too dry or waterlogged. Both scenarios can lead to a plant wilting.

Also, try examining the plant's root ball. Extirpate it from the pot, and if required, discard dead roots and any dried up soil falling off the pot's walls.

Additionally, it's important to ensure the room temperature is suitable for the specific plant species. Regularly check the leaves and shoots for any signs of pests or diseases. Brown-black spots could be indicative of fungal diseases.

Lighting is another crucial factor to consider. Shade-tolerant plants, like ivy, uzamia, ferns, or peace lilies don't require much light. On the other hand, plants such as aloe, stonecrops, and euphorbia, need more light.