Nothing is more frustrating than a plant that, after receiving careful attention, suddenly starts sending out signals of distress. Yellow leaves, brown edges, unwanted insects… your green housemate can suffer all sorts of ailments. Fortunately, you don't have to give up. With this comprehensive first aid guide from PlantToday , you'll become an expert in saving your plants.
1. Diagnosis: What's wrong with my plant?
Before taking action, it's crucial to get the right diagnosis. Look for the following symptoms:
Yellow leaves
Cause: Usually a sign of too much or too little water.
Other causes:
Too much water: Root rot from constantly wet potting soil. Yellow leaves often become limp and drop off.
Insufficient water: The lower leaves, in particular, turn yellow. The plant dries out and drops its leaves.
Nutrient deficiency: Lack of nutrients such as nitrogen can lead to discolored leaves.
Brown leaves
Cause: Often too dry air or too much direct sunlight.
Other causes:
Brown, crispy edges: Low humidity, especially with tropical plants.
Brown spots: Too much direct sunlight causes burn marks.
White, powdery spots
Cause: Mold (mildew), often caused by too much moisture and insufficient air circulation.
Tiny, sticky bugs
Cause: Pests such as aphids, mealybugs or spider mites.
2. First aid for water stress: Too much or too little?
Most plant problems are related to an incorrect watering regime.
Too much water (root rot)
What to do:
Remove the plant from the pot and gently shake the old soil from the roots.
Rinse the roots under the tap to inspect for damage.
Treatment:
Cut away any soft, brown, or slimy roots with clean scissors .
Remove any yellowed leaves, as these cost the plant energy.
Repot in fresh, airy potting soil and a clean pot with drainage holes.
Wait to water until the soil has dried out thoroughly.
Too little water (dehydration)
What to do:
Water the plant immediately. If the potting soil is completely dry, the water can drain away immediately.
Treatment:
Use a water treatment : place the pot in a bucket or bowl of water so that the plant absorbs water until the top layer of soil feels moist.
Let the plant drain well before putting it back.
3. Pest Control: The Battle Against Unwanted Guests
Pests spread quickly, so a quick response is essential.
Aphids or mealybugs
What to do: Isolate the infected plant to prevent further spread.
Treatment: Mix 1 tablespoon of green soap with 1 liter of water in a plant sprayer and spray the plant thoroughly, including the undersides of the leaves. Repeat after a week.
Spider mite
What to do: Spider mites cause yellow spots and fine webs on leaves. They thrive in dry environments.
Treatment: Spray the plant regularly with water and increase humidity. For persistent pests, you can use predatory mites (natural enemies of spider mites, available online).
4. Special treatments for specific problems
White mold on the potting soil
What to do: Usually a harmless saprophytic fungus due to an overly moist environment.
Treatment: Scrape away the top layer of potting soil and allow the soil to dry thoroughly before watering again.
Shock from moving
What to do: Some plants, such as Ficus, lose leaves after a move or relocation.
Treatment: Give the plant a rest. Ensure a stable temperature and light. Avoid unnecessary repotting during this period.
5. PlantToday's Golden Rule
Observe your plant!
A healthy plant has firm, brightly colored leaves. At the first signs of distress, act quickly and effectively. With this guide and a little patience, your plant can flourish again.
6. Extra tips for a healthy plant
-
Increase humidity: Tropical plants love moist air.
-
Check the potting soil: Make sure it remains airy and does not become too wet.
-
Repotting: Give plants enough room to grow; a pot that is too small will stunt their development.
-
Feeding: Feed occasionally during the growing season to prevent deficiencies.
💚 A little attention and knowledge can make the difference between a limp leaf and a lush, healthy plant.