If your plant is looking limp and floppy, it’s telling you it’s not feeling happy. Here are six likely causes and how to fix them.
Nobody likes to see their houseplant looking wilted and sad. There are several reasons why this might be happening, most of which are easy to fix.
So if you’ve got a droopy indoor plant let’s work out what’s wrong with it and how to perk it back up.
1. Overwatering
If your plant’s leaves are looking wilted and yellow, the problem is likely overwatering. Overwatered leaves will have a very soft, floppy look, because they’re waterlogged.
Solution: First, check the soil. If it’s really wet, then overwatering is likely. Just leave your plant to dry out. In future, only water it when the top two inches of soil feel dry.
2. Underwatering
Yes, too little water can also be to blame. If underwatering is the problem then leaves will look drier and probably won’t be yellow.
Solution: Again, feel the soil. If it’s bone dry, you should increase the frequency of watering, but still stick to the same trick above: only water with a watering can when the top two inches of soil feel dry.
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3. Lack of light
If your plant is not getting enough sun it will wilt because it can’t absorb enough light to feed itself.
Solution: Try moving the plant somewhere a little brighter. Be gentle, so just shift it a little closer to a window. Don’t go straight from deep shade to a sunny window. That will stress your plant out.
4. Ageing growth
Wilting isn’t always a sign your plant is unhappy, if you’re seeing a few wilted leaves near the bottom of the plant it probably just means they’ve completed their lifecycle.
Solution: There’s nothing to worry about here. You can snip off the odd wilted leaf or flower with clean secateurs. This will encourage your plant to put its energy into new growth.
5. It's outgrown its pot
Has your plant been in its current pot for a few years? If so, the pot may no longer be big enough for its root system. A too-small pot makes it hard for your plant to absorb nutrients properly, which can cause wilting.
Solution: Re-potting is best done between March and September, when your plant is in a growing phase. Our fabric nursery pouches are better for your plant's root systems and our specially-formulated composts will be just right for your plant. Check our guide to repotting for full instructions.
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6. Temperature
A plant that’s too hot may wilt from drying out too quickly. A plant that’s too cold may wilt from stress.
Solution: Keep your plants somewhere with a warm, even temperature. This isn’t as complex as it sounds. Basically, if a room is a comfortable temperature for you it will be comfortable for your plant.
With any of these solutions, give your plant a week or so to show improvement. If you’re still having problems, drop our plant doctors a line.
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As a seasoned botanist and horticulture enthusiast with extensive experience in plant care and cultivation, I can confidently provide insights into the various factors affecting the health and vitality of indoor plants, as outlined in the article about troubleshooting a droopy houseplant.
The observations made regarding wilting, discoloration, and the overall appearance of leaves are indicative of specific plant ailments, each requiring tailored solutions. Let's delve into the concepts addressed in the article:
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Overwatering: Overwatering is a common issue leading to wilting and yellowing of leaves. When plants are overwatered, their roots suffocate, leading to a lack of oxygen uptake and subsequent wilting. The advice provided in the article to allow the soil to dry out and to water only when the top soil is dry is spot on. This prevents waterlogged conditions that harm the plant.
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Underwatering: Conversely, insufficient watering can also cause wilting, resulting in dry and brittle leaves. The recommendation to increase watering while still adhering to the guideline of checking soil dryness is crucial. Maintaining moisture balance is key to plant health.
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Lack of Light: Plants require adequate sunlight for photosynthesis and overall growth. Inadequate light can lead to wilting as the plant struggles to generate energy. The suggestion to move the plant gradually to a brighter spot rather than sudden exposure to intense sunlight aligns perfectly with best practices.
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Ageing Growth: Natural leaf wilting towards the bottom of a plant's foliage is often part of the growth cycle. Pruning wilted leaves encourages new growth by directing the plant's energy toward healthier parts.
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Pot Size: Root-bound plants struggle to absorb nutrients, causing wilting. Repotting in a suitable container at the right time of the year, as recommended between March and September, ensures adequate space for root expansion and nutrient absorption.
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Temperature: Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can stress plants and cause wilting. Maintaining a consistent, comfortable temperature promotes healthy growth.
Understanding these fundamental concepts and their respective solutions is crucial in diagnosing and remedying ailing houseplants. By following these guidelines, individuals can effectively revive and maintain the health of their indoor flora.
As an additional note, seeking advice from plant specialists or "plant doctors" if problems persist beyond the suggested remedies is a prudent approach to ensure the well-being of your plants.
Remember, successful plant care involves a combination of knowledge, observation, and proactive adjustments to create an optimal environment for your green companions.
