Week of February 1, 2016 For Immediate Release

Common Houseplant Problems Beth Doran, Beef Program Specialist

Most winter houseplant problems fall into one of three categories - insects, disease or abiotic. Abiotic problems are caused by nonliving agents, such as environmental, physiological or other non-biological factors. Today’s focus is on abiotic problems.

What causes spindly houseplants?

The most common cause of spindly plants is not enough light or poor lighting conditions. These plants will grow long, weak leaf stems that reach in the direction of the strongest light available. If you cannot give these plants more sun, the answer may be artificial light. For large plants, use overhead floodlights. Fluorescent lights may be used for plants less than 12 inches tall.

Why is my houseplant wilting?

There are two common causes for wilting – over-watering or under-watering. When the plant is over- watered, the soil doesn’t contain enough air for the plant to breathe. Hence, it begins to wilt and the roots begin to rot. If the plant is under-watered, it cannot take up enough water to support the cell structure. A good rule for most houseplants is to water the plant when the soil is barely moist or almost dry to the touch.

Why is my houseplant losing its leaves?

There are three common reasons for leaf loss – overwatering, poor lighting conditions or injury due to low temperatures. The plant cannot support all of its foliage when light is limited. Consequently, the plant drops its leaves to adjust to the amount of foliage it can support. Low humidity in the house causes leaf drop. Most houseplants prefer humidity levels of 40 to 50%, but most homes in the winter are 10 to 20%. An alternative to a humidifier is to place houseplants on saucers filled with water and pebbles, making sure the bottoms of the pots are above the water level.

Why are the leaves on my houseplant small and off-color?

This is commonly associated with poor nutrition, but can also be caused by overwatering. If overwatering is not the problem, begin a regular fertilizer program on a monthly basis. However, reduce feeding during the low-light days of winter.

Why does my houseplant seem to be “sulking” and not growing?

Plants that need to be repotted often “sulk”. But, once repotted they often burst into new life. The key is to check the root system. If the roots form a solid network and the larger ones coil around and around in the soil, repotting is in order. The diameter of the pot should be equal to about 1/3 of the height of the upright plant or 1/4 the width of a plant that spreads horizontally.

And I leave you with one wish – “May all of your houseplants be healthy and growing!”

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Beth Ellen Doran, Beef Program Specialist Iowa State University Extension and Outreach 712-737-4230 or [email protected]