Help! My Houseplant is Dying. What Should I Do?

If you’re like most people, you probably rely on houseplants to help improve your indoor air quality. Unfortunately, even the hardiest of plants can succumb to common household problems like over-watering and pests.

Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common houseplant problems and how to solve them.

One of the most common reasons for houseplants dying is overwatering. When roots are constantly wet, they become susceptible to root rot, which is caused by a pathogen that thrives in moist environments. If you think your plant might be overwatered, check the soil before adding more water. If it’s still wet, wait a few days and check again.

If your plant is infested with pests, you’ll likely see telltale signs like white webs (spider mites) or small flies near the plant (fungus gnats). To get rid of pests, you’ll need to treat the plant with an insecticide. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and take care not to overdo it, as this can harm your plant.

Finally, if your houseplant is looking generally unhealthy, it might be due to a lack of light or nutrients. Move it to a brighter spot and fertilize it according to the package directions. With a little TLC, your plant should be back to its old self in no time.