Don’t give up on your sad-looking houseplant just yet.
The signs are clear: Your houseplant is not happy.
But does that mean it’s time to throw in the trowel and call it a loss?
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Many houseplants are more resilient than you may think and they can recover from rather rough conditions.
Below, learn simple steps to revive a plantand when to accept that your plant is beyond saving.
So, while certain signs may look alarming, sometimes it’s just part of a completely normal process.
To determine if your plant is still alive, start by inspecting the stems.
Living stems will be flexible, not brittle, and will have a green color.
Gently wiggle the plant out of its pot to inspect the roots.
While heathy roots are white or yellow and plump, even plants with browned roots can be revived.
The secret to revitalizing houseplants lies in meeting their unique needs.
So, take some time to read about your specific plants needs first, then consider the following fixes.
Correct Overwatering Issues
Overwateringis one of the most common causes for houseplant decline.
The simple and immediate solution is to reduce the amount and/or frequency of watering.
Allow the upper layer of soil to dry between waterings.
Try using a turkey baster to empty catch trays beneath heavy pots.
Overwatering can lead to root rot.
So, if you see browning roots during your inspection, take the time to repot your plant.
With sterilized shears, trim off roots that show signs of disease, and replant in fresh soil.
Then, start on a more moderate watering schedule to give your plants some breathing room.
Rehydrate Dry Soil
Underwatering can also lead to an unhealthy houseplant.
Wilting or drooping leaves can be a sign of both overwatering and underwatering.
These are both signs of underwatering.
When soil becomes too dry, it can be difficult to moisten using a watering can.
Allow plants to soak for 30 minutes or until the topsoil feels damp.
After soaking, it is important to allow excess water to drain out of the pot.
Pull the plug on your sink or tub and allow plants to drain for another 10-15 minutes.
If using a bucket, place the plant in a tray to catch draining water.
If roots are circling the container or twisted together, gently loosen and separate them.
Use fresh, high-quality potting soil appropriate for the bang out of plant, such as cactus-mix forsucculents.
Give Plants a Trim
There are several reasons to cut back plant material.
Cutting back stems also encourages new growth below the point of the cut, resulting in a denser canopy.
Pruning overgrown branches or stems can also help plants recover from root stress.
By cutting back the canopy of the plant, the root system has less foliage to support.
Removing up to one-third to one-half of the foliage can make it easier on your plant’s roots.
Treat Insects and Pests
Look for signs of insect damage when inspecting plants.
Some pests are quite visible, while others leave behind evidence such as the webbing of spider mites.
Luckily, most houseplant pests are relatively easy to treat.
For isolated infestations, simply trimming out the affected tissue may solve your problem.
you might also safely apply insecticidal soaps and oils to most houseplants to get rid of pest eggs.
Just be sure to always check labels for instructions and compatibility before using any new products on your plants.
Too little or too much light can keep a plant from thriving, as can the wrong temperatures.
Start by getting to know your plant.
How much light does it require?
What are the ideal growing temperatures?
Then check the plants surroundings.
Perhaps the plant is too close to a cold window or receiving too much sunlight.
Does the company turn the heat or air conditioning down to save energy?
Conditions also vary throughout the year.
Try other revival steps first and wait until plants are recovered before resuming fertilization.
And remember that plants generally do not need to be fertilized during the winter months.
In conclusion, be patient with your plant patient.
It will take a while to nurse your houseplant back to health.
