We are often asked why do indoor plants die, the answer is usually simple.
What we call indoor, or houseplants are actually outdoor plants that we choose to grow indoors. If you choose the right plant, and grow it in similar conditions to its natural outdoor habitat you will have lush and good looking plants.
To work out what the problem is with your indoor plant, take a look at the following common problems.
Under Watering
Plants need a regular watering regime for healthy root growth, and this varies between types of plants. For example, ferns will need more watering than succulents.
How you water is also important, nearly all plants are best watered by a deep soaking, rather than a light watering. As a guide, once a week in summer for many plants is suitable. Succulents however may require less.
So try immersing the pot into a bucket of water for 20 minutes. This will saturate the soil. Let the pot drain and remove any excess water that accumulated in the saucer below the pot.
How to tell if a plant needs water
Take note of the weight of the pot, when the soil is moist, it will weight more, as it dries it will weigh a lot less, this is one way of determining if the plant needs water.
Push your finger down into the soil, you will feel if it’s moist or dry.
Use a soil moisture metre, these are cheap and reasonably efficient.
Over Watering
Wet soggy soil can cause fungal problems and root rot.
To little or to much light
Too much light can cause leaf burn, even indoors. A plant next to sunny window can easily get leaf burn on a hot day.
Too little light can cause leaf drop, leaves to become pale or wilt.
Pests and Diseases
A number of pests and diseases are common among indoor plants, many related to humidity and moisture, these include: