So, you’ve decided to bring a little greenery into your life—congrats! Indoor plants can be a fantastic way to liven up your space, improve air quality, and give you a sense of accomplishment. But let’s face it: Even with the most low-maintenance plants, care can still be a bit tricky. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your leafy companions might start acting out. If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head over yellow leaves or wilting stems, you’re not alone. To help you get your houseplants thriving again, we spoke with plant experts to get the scoop on common houseplant mistakes and how to spot them before they turn into plant drama.
Why are my houseplant leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves are like the houseplant equivalent of a cry for help. "This is usually due to improper water (too much or too little), infestation, or not receiving enough sunlight," says Tammy Sons, plant expert and CEO/founder of TN Nursery in Tennessee.
More often than not, yellowing indicates overwatering, as excess moisture can drown the roots and prevent them from absorbing nutrients properly. It could also be a sign of nutrient deficiency, particularly nitrogen, or even a pest issue. Take a moment to check your watering routine and make sure your plant is getting the right balance.
Why is my houseplant wilting after watering?
Ah, the irony! You water your plant expecting it to perk up, but instead, it wilts and droops even more. This wilting could be due to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Roots that are sitting in soggy soil can’t breathe, resulting in droopy leaves. Make sure your pot has drainage holes and give your plant time to dry out between waterings for optimal hydration.
Why are the edges of my houseplant leaves turning brown?
Brown leaf edges are like a warning sign that your plant is experiencing stress. This could be due to underwatering, where the plant isn’t getting enough moisture to keep its leaves hydrated. On the flip side, it might also indicate too much direct sunlight or low humidity, which can dry out the leaves. Check your plant’s environment to ensure it’s getting just the right amount of love.
Why does my houseplant look leggy?
If your houseplant looks like it’s auditioning for a role in a horror movie, it might be leggy! This usually happens when a plant isn’t getting enough light, causing it to stretch towards the light source. "Usually, a plant grows toward the direction of the most sunlight," Sons says.
While it’s a natural response, it can leave your plant looking sparse and uneven. Try moving it closer to a light source or consider supplementing with a grow light to help it thrive.
Why are my houseplant leaves dropping?
Leaf drop can feel like a dramatic breakup between you and your plant. This can occur for several reasons: stress from overwatering, underwatering, or sudden temperature changes. "Too much water can cause root rot and cause leaves to drop," Sons notes. Environmental factors, like moving your plant from a warm room to a cold draft, can also trigger this response. Check your watering habits and make sure your plant is in a stable environment to help it settle down.
Why isn’t my houseplant growing?
If your houseplant isn’t growing much, it could be due to a lack of nutrients, Sons says. "All plants need fertilizer—that's usually the culprit behind most houseplants' nourishment needs," she explains.
It could also be a sign that your plant in the wrong spot. Lack of light is a common culprit, but it might also need a nutrient boost or a bigger pot to encourage healthy root growth. Assess its light conditions and consider fertilizing it during the growing season to spark some enthusiasm.
Why are the leaves of my houseplant curling?
Curling leaves can be a sign of distress. This could indicate inconsistent watering as too much or too little can cause leaves to curl up in self-defense. High temperatures or low humidity levels can also be the culprits. Your plant might just need a little extra TLC, so be sure to evaluate your watering schedule and check the humidity in your space.
Why are there brown spots on my houseplant leaves?
According to Sons, "This could be a range of issues: a blight, improper care, or pests attacking the plant. However, fungi are usually the reason for the brown spots on houseplants."
Yes, those unsightly brown spots might be a result of fungal infections or pest damage. Overwatering can create the perfect environment for fungi, while pests like spider mites and aphids can leave marks as they feed on your plant. Inspect your plant carefully for signs of infestation or disease, and consider adjusting your care routine to prevent further issues.
Why is there white powder on my houseplant leaves?
"White powder on leaves is usually powdery mildew, a fungal issue that thrives in humid, poorly ventilated areas," says Sophie Marasco, founder and florist at Thanks A Bunch Florist in Melbourne, Australia. "I always recommend increasing airflow and using an organic fungicide to tackle this problem."
A mealybug infestation could also be the culprit as these tiny pests leave behind a cottony residue. To treat these, increase airflow around your plant, adjust watering practices, and consider using insecticidal soap or fungicides as needed.
Why is my houseplant getting more pests?
If your houseplant seems to be a magnet for pests, it could be due to stress factors like overwatering, lack of light, poor air circulation, or lack of cleaning.
"Regularly inspecting leaves and stems, using insecticidal soap, or introducing natural predators like ladybugs can help manage pest infestations," Marasco says.
Healthy plants are generally less appealing to pests. Keep your plant healthy by ensuring it’s in the right environment, and regularly inspect for any unwanted guests so you can nip the problem in the bud.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
