Houseplant Problems and answers

Plant problems are common- outdoors and indoors. And some of the problems are similar- too much water, too little water, insects, plant disease to name a few. It should not surprise you then to realize that treatment is also similar. It's simply done inside versus outside. For many problems like too much or too little water, the remedy is simple and easy to apply. Identifying the cause of the problem comes before the cure.
Here are some of the most common houseplants problems and what you can do about them:
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Symptom: Leaves are turning yellow Possible causes:

This is a common problem. Unfortunately this may be due to a number of problems including too much or too little light, and too much fertilizer. It could also be caused by too much water.
What to Do: In the order listed above, adjust your plants environment. Hold off adding any additional fertilizer until the problem is resolved. Watch carefully to see how your plant responds.

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Symptom: Base of stem is soft or mushy Possible cause:

This is a common result of over-watering. What to Do: Let the surface of the soil dry out between waterings. If the pot does not have drainage holes, re-pot your plant into one that does. While re-potting, make sure to use soil that drains well. Add coarse sand to improve drainage.

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Symptom: Leaves tips turning brown Possible cause:

Like yellowing leaves, there are several causes of this. The most common cause is too much or too little water. Too much fertilizer is also a common cause.
What to Do: Follow the proper procedure for watering your houseplants. Hold off adding fertilizer for three to four weeks. Repot in fresh soil.

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Symptom:Dry and brittle leaves Possible cause:

Too little water or low humidity.
What to Do: Follow the proper procedure for watering your houseplants. Increase the humidity in your home. Use plant misters. More on Humidity.

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Symptom: Leaf Drop
Possible cause: Too much sun or fertilizer. Too much or too little water. Exposure to cold or draft.
What to Do: Follow the proper procedure for watering your houseplants. Hold off adding fertilizer for three to four weeks. If you have your plant in a sunny window, move it to a location with less light. Check the temperature of where you have your plant.

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Symptom: Leaf Drop
Possible cause: Too much sun or fertilizer. Too much or too little water. Exposure to cold or draft.
What to Do: Follow the proper procedure for watering your houseplants. Hold off adding fertilizer

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Symptom: Yellow or Brown Spots on Leaves Possible cause:

Too much sun or too much water. What to Do: If the plant is in a sunny, southerly window move it to an area with less light. Check to see if the soil is too wet.

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Symptom: Slow Plant Growth Possible cause:

Too little sunlight, water or fertilizer. What to Do: Provide more direct sunlight or gro-light. Add water. Add liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks.