According to a survey by Home Advisor, on average, gardeners failed to keep 35% of their plants alive. And it’s twice as high for beginners.1 These statistics highlight a common challenge faced by plant enthusiasts: keeping their green friends alive and thriving.
Whether you’re tending to a lush vegetable patch, nurturing potted herbs, or cultivating fruit trees, the struggle to maintain healthy plants is real.
Here are 15 methods to save your dying plants and boost your gardening success rate, helping you transform from a plant novice to a seasoned green thumb.
1. Assess the Damage
Before jumping into rescue mode, take a moment to evaluate your plant’s condition. Look for signs of life, such as green stems or leaves, and check the roots for any healthy, white sections. This initial assessment will help you determine if your plant has a fighting chance and guide your revival strategy.
Remember, even if a plant appears mostly dead, it may still have some life left in it. Don’t give up hope too quickly – your seemingly lifeless plant might just need the right care to bounce back.
2. Adjust Watering Habits
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of plant death. If your plant’s soil feels consistently damp and the leaves are yellowing or wilting, it’s time to cut back on watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and ensure your pot has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
On the flip side, underwatering can be just as detrimental. If the soil is bone dry and the leaves are crispy, give your plant a good soak.
Submerge the entire pot in water for about 15 minutes, allowing the soil to absorb moisture from the bottom up. This method ensures thorough hydration without risking overwatering.
3. Improve Lighting Conditions
Many plants suffer from improper lighting. If your plant stretches towards a light source or has pale, lackluster leaves, it may need more light.
Gradually move it to a brighter spot, careful not to shock it with sudden intense sunlight. Conversely, if the leaves are scorched or bleached, your plant might be getting too much direct sun.
Experiment with different locations in your home to find the perfect balance of light for your specific plant species. Even small adjustments in lighting can make a significant difference in your plant’s health.
4. Repot & Refresh the Soil
If your plant has been in the same pot for a while, it might be time for an upgrade. Gently remove the plant from its current container and inspect the roots. Trim away any dark, mushy, or foul-smelling roots, as these are signs of root rot.
Choose a new pot that’s slightly larger than the old one and fill it with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Repotting can stimulate new growth and improve overall plant health. This process not only provides fresh nutrients but also gives roots more space to expand, promoting better overall plant health.
5. Prune Dead or Dying Parts
Don’t be afraid to get snippy with your struggling plant. Remove any dead, yellowing, or diseased leaves and stems. This not only improves the plant’s appearance but also allows it to redirect energy towards healthy growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid tearing the plant tissue.
Pruning can stimulate new growth and help reshape a leggy or uneven plant. Strategic pruning can increase branching and promote fuller, bushier growth in many plant species. Just be sure not to remove more than 25% of the plant at once to avoid shocking it.
6. Boost Humidity
Many indoor plants, especially tropical varieties, thrive in humid environments. If your plant’s leaves are browning at the tips or edges, it might be crying out for more moisture in the air.
Create a humidity tray by filling a shallow dish with pebbles and water, then place the plant pot on top. As the water evaporates, the humidity around the plant will increase.
Alternatively, group plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity. For an extra boost, consider using a humidifier in the room where you keep your plants.
7. Treat for Pests
Inspect your plant closely for signs of pest infestation, such as tiny webs, sticky residue, or small insects on the leaves and stems. Common houseplant pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
If you spot any unwelcome visitors, isolate the affected plant to prevent the pests from spreading.
Treat the infestation with an appropriate method, such as wiping leaves with a diluted soap solution or using neem oil. Regular inspection and proactive pest management are key to maintaining healthy plants.
8. Adjust Temperature
Plants are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and extreme heat or cold can cause stress. Move your plant away from drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or heating sources. Most houseplants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F during the day and slightly cooler at night.
Pay attention to your plant’s specific temperature preferences and adjust its location accordingly. Remember, even small temperature changes can have a big impact on plant health.
9. Fertilize Wisely
A nutrient deficiency can cause a plant to look sickly and struggle to grow. However, be cautious with fertilizer, as too much can burn the roots and cause more harm than good.
Start with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength, and gradually increase as your plant shows signs of improvement.
However, tailoring your fertilization schedule to your plant’s specific needs and growth cycle is crucial. Many plants benefit from a “rest period” with reduced fertilization during winter months.
10. Provide Support
If your plant is drooping or has weak stems, it may benefit from some structural support. To help your plant grow upright, use bamboo stakes, plant ties, or a trellis. Be gentle when attaching supports to avoid damaging the plant’s delicate tissues.
Supporting your plant not only improves its appearance but can also promote healthier growth. This is particularly important for vining or climbing plants.
11. Address Root Issues
Root problems can be a major cause of plant decline. If you suspect root rot or compacted soil, gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the root system. Healthy roots should be firm and white or light-colored. Trim away any dark, mushy, or foul-smelling roots using clean, sharp scissors.
After addressing root issues, repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. Adjust your watering habits to prevent future root issues.
12. Increase Air Circulation
Poor air circulation can lead to fungal growth and other plant health issues. Ensure your plant has enough space around it for air to flow freely. If you have multiple plants grouped together, consider spacing them out a bit more.
For plants in enclosed spaces, like terrariums, consider adding a small fan to promote air movement. This simple step can significantly improve your plant’s overall health and resilience.
13. Adjust pH Levels
The pH of your plant’s soil can greatly affect its ability to absorb nutrients. Most houseplants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). If you suspect a pH imbalance, test the soil using a home pH testing kit and adjust as needed using appropriate soil amendments.
This can lead to more vibrant foliage, stronger growth, and increased resistance to pests and diseases. Regular soil testing and pH management are essential for maintaining optimal plant health.
14. Provide Winter Care
Many plants enter a dormant or semi-dormant state during winter months. Adjust your care routine accordingly by reducing watering and fertilization. Move plants away from cold windows and consider using grow lights to supplement reduced natural light.
Pay attention to each plant’s specific winter needs, as some may require more dramatic changes in care than others during this season.
15. Be Patient & Consistent
Reviving a dying plant takes time and consistent care. Don’t expect overnight miracles – it can take weeks or even months for a plant to show significant improvement. Stick to your new care routine and resist the urge to overcompensate with too much water or fertilizer.
Keep a plant journal to track changes and adjustments in your care routine. This will help you identify what works best for each of your plants in the long run.
By implementing these strategies and staying attuned to your plants’ needs, you’ll not only save your current botanical buddies but also develop the skills to nurture thriving, vibrant plants for years to come.
Source:
Read Next:
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.