If you've underwatered and the rootball is solid like a brick, a surfactant is helpful. I use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of liquid diswashing detergent per gallon of water. (not the anti-bacterial kind...it'll kill the beneficial bacteria in the soil) The dishsoap lowers the surface tension of the water, allowing it to be easily absorbed by the peat. (in the potting soil)

Slowly add a cup or two at a time. Let it soak-in all the way, and add more. Keep up this painstakingly slow process till you start to see runoff. One of these applications is all that's necessary, but two are ok if need be. The trick is to not add the water too fast. Let it soak-in before adding more.

Adjust your watering schedule.
Rusty Trichome Reviewed by Rusty Trichome on . soil problem i have top 44 plants growing. i started the flowering stage. but my soil seem to be really dry? but i don't want to over water because some of the older leafs have begun to look as if its been over watered or possibly not watered enough? the leafs are yellow and some of them are brittle, they crumble at the touch. maybe its to hot in my room, temps avg 77 to 80. do top 44 plants need a lot of water? is my fan drying the soil out? its not close? Rating: 5