Houseplant Troubleshooting: Why Your Plant Is Dying

Houseplant Troubleshooting: Why Your Plant Is Dying

Before you give up on your plant, diagnose the problem. Most issues are fixable.

Yellow Leaves

Overwatering — let soil dry out. Check for root rot.

Brown Leaf Tips

Low humidity or inconsistent watering. Mist regularly or use a pebble tray.

Leggy Growth

Reaching for light. Move closer to a window or add a grow light.

Wilting Despite Moist Soil

Root rot. Unpot, trim dead roots, air-dry, repot in fresh soil.

White Fuzzy Spots

Mealybugs. Wipe with rubbing alcohol or spray neem oil.

No New Growth

May be dormant (winter). If growing season, try repotting or fertilizing.