Solving Common Houseplant Problems
Quick solutions to the most frequent houseplant issues.
Brown Leaf Tips
Brown tips on leaves often result from low humidity, fluoride in water, or salt buildup in the soil. To remedy this, increase the humidity around your plant, use filtered water, and periodically flush the soil to remove excess salts.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth typically indicates insufficient light. Move your plant to a brighter location, prune back overgrown stems, and consider using a grow light to supplement natural light.
No Growth
If your plant isn't growing, it may be in a dormant phase, root-bound, or suffering from inadequate light. Be patient and wait for spring, repot if necessary, and ensure it receives sufficient light.
Dropping Leaves
Leaf drop is often a sign of stress from environmental changes. Maintain consistent care routines and avoid moving the plant frequently to minimise stress.
Pests
Pests are usually a symptom of poor plant health. Improve overall care and treat infestations with appropriate methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Final Tip
Regularly inspect your plants for early signs of trouble. Prompt action can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Tools and supplies for this
Products we'd actually buy for this job. Linking to Amazon — if you buy through these links we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Weston Mill Pottery Terracotta plant pots, 175mm (pack of 10)
Mid-size workhorse terracotta — perfect step-up for plants outgrowing their nursery pots.
- Weston Mill Pottery Terracotta plant pots, 20cm (pack of 5)
Heavyweight 20cm clay for established plants — the porous walls help prevent the soggy roots aroids hate.
- Whitefurze G04012 7.5cm Garden Pot - Terracotta (Set of 10)
Cheap, cheerful plastic propagation pots — what we actually use for cuttings and small offsets.
- Whitefurze G04013 10cm Garden Pot - Terracotta (Set of 7)
Reliable mid-size nursery pots with proper drainage holes — the boring essential every plant parent runs out of.
Dr. James Chen
Plant Doctor
Passionate about helping plant parents succeed with expert tips and proven techniques.
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