Off you trot to Stanler Farms and purchase a beautiful array of flowers, plants, shrubs and trees…now how do you keep them looking and feeling as good as they did when you took them home from the nursery. We discuss the signs of an unhappy plant and how to treat it.
5 Things all Plants Need
There are 5 essential things that every plant needs in order to grow and survive.
- Sunlight
- Correct Temperature
- Water
- Air
- Nutrients
If your plant is missing one of these lifelines, there are some signs you can look out for to see if your plant is happy or sad. Here we look at a few:
Signs Your Plant is Unhappy
Leaf Tips are Turning Yellow or Brown
Leaves turning brown or yellow is generally a sign that your plant is thirsty and in need of water OR you have unfortunately overwatered it. When the tips of your leaves change colour, your plant is in distress and showing you a sign. Handy Tip – If the leaves are soft and limp, your plant has received too much water; if they are dry and crispy leaves – too little water.
Older leaves often yellow and fall off the plant as part of the natural ageing process, but if this is occurring frequently and to a new, young plant, your plant is asking for help.
Wilting Leaves
Wilting leaves can sometimes be quite confusing..the first tip is to stick your finger straight into the soil to see whether it is dry or wet. You need to feel about 2-3cm below the surface to get a good idea of the soil’s condition.
If the soil is quite wet, it is probably under stress due to root rot. Have a look at the roots, if they look healthy, white or light brown they are still good and you might be able to save the plant, however, if they are falling apart when you touch them, mushy and turning dark brown these are signs of rot.
You are not alone in trying to figure all of this out yourself – With Stanler Farms, home visits can be arranged with our horticulturists for advice on troublesome gardens.
Pale or Discoloured Leaves
If your plant’s leaves appear pale or discoloured, it could be a sign of nutrient deficiencies, such as a lack of nitrogen or magnesium. Nitrogen deficiency often causes yellowing in older leaves, while magnesium deficiency typically leads to yellowing between the leaf veins. Addressing this issue involves carefully assessing your plant’s feeding routine and ensuring it receives a balanced fertilizer suited to its needs. Over-fertilising should also be avoided, as it can cause further complications. Remember to monitor your plant’s response over time and adjust care accordingly.
Slow or Stunted Growth
Slow growth in plants can often indicate inadequate light, poor soil quality, or insufficient nutrients. Plants rely heavily on light for photosynthesis, so ensure they receive the appropriate amount and intensity for their specific needs. Poor soil quality might mean a lack of essential organic matter or improper aeration, both of which can hinder root development and nutrient absorption.
Additionally, insufficient nutrients in the soil can prevent plants from reaching their full potential. To address slow growth, check the plant’s environment to confirm it has optimal lighting conditions, and consider using nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Regularly evaluate the plant’s progress and make gradual adjustments to ensure healthy development.
Dropping Leaves
Dropping leaves is often a sign of environmental stress, which may be triggered by sudden temperature changes, drafts, or inconsistent watering. Plants are sensitive to their surroundings, and any extreme fluctuations can disrupt their natural growth processes. To prevent or address leaf drop, ensure the plant is placed in a stable environment with consistent temperatures, away from cold drafts or heating vents.
Additionally, maintain a regular watering schedule, taking care not to overwater or let the soil dry out completely. Monitor the plant closely for signs of improvement and adjust care routines as needed to restore its health.
Pests or Mold
Pests or mold can be detrimental to a plant’s health, and recognising the early signs is crucial for effective intervention. Sticky residue on leaves or stems may indicate the presence of sap-sucking insects such as aphids or mealybugs, while chewed edges or holes in leaves could point to larger pests like caterpillars. White powdery substances, often found on the surface of leaves, are a common sign of powdery mildew, a fungal infection that thrives in humid conditions.
To address these issues, isolate the affected plant immediately to prevent spreading, and remove visible pests or infected leaves carefully. Consider using natural remedies like neem oil or horticultural soap, or a plant-safe fungicide for mold-related problems. Regularly inspecting your plants and ensuring proper air circulation can help prevent future infestations or fungal growth.
Curling Leaves
Curling leaves can be a plant’s way of responding to stress, often caused by extreme heat, pest infestations, or overwatering. When exposed to high temperatures, plants may curl their leaves to conserve moisture and reduce water loss. Similarly, pests such as aphids or spider mites feeding on sap can cause distorted, curled foliage.
Overwatering, on the other hand, can lead to root damage and poor nutrient uptake, causing leaves to curl as a distress signal. To remedy this, identify the underlying cause by examining the plant’s environment and condition. Adjust watering schedules, shield plants from intense sunlight, and remove pests using appropriate treatments to restore the plant’s health.
What Plants Need to Thrive
Ensuring your plants thrive rather than just survive requires careful attention to their needs. While the basics—sunlight, water, air, temperature, and nutrients—are critical, understanding how to provide these elements effectively can make all the difference. For instance, the correct amount of sunlight varies between plants; some prefer full sun while others thrive in shady spots. Overwatering or underwatering is one of the most common mistakes, so always check the soil’s moisture level before watering.
Nutrients, too, are vital—using the right type of soil and fertilisers ensures your plants get the minerals they require for healthy growth. Additionally, always monitor the temperature, particularly for indoor plants, ensuring they are not exposed to chilly drafts or overheating. A consistent and balanced approach to these factors will set your plants up for success.
How to Revive an Unhappy Plant
Reviving an unhappy plant requires patience and a careful assessment of its condition to determine what might be causing the distress. Start by examining the plant closely for any signs of trouble—yellowing leaves, drooping stems, or spotting might point to overwatering, underwatering, or even pests. Check the soil’s condition; if it’s too dry, water gradually, but if it feels overly soggy, improve drainage immediately. Ensure the plant has access to adequate light, but avoid placing it directly in harsh sunlight unless it’s a species that thrives in such conditions.
Next, consider the plant’s diet—repotting your plant into fresh soil or providing a diluted dose of fertilizer can help replenish lost nutrients. Be careful not to over-fertilise, as this could do more harm than good. Prune any dead or diseased parts of the plant to direct its energy towards healthy growth. Lastly, give your plant time and monitor its progress regularly, adjusting care as needed. With consistent and thoughtful attention, many struggling plants can be brought back to health and vibrancy.
