YELLOWING LEAVES
Older plant leaves may yellow and drop off as part of the
natural ageing process and this is completely normal.
However, if lots of leaves are turning yellow, including new
growth, it’s possible your plant is getting too much light. Try
moving it to a spot with indirect light and see if it improves.
LEAVES DROPPING
This can be tricky to decipher as it can be caused by
over- and under-watering. Regularly sticking your finger in
the top layers of soil will tell you how quickly it’s drying out.
As a very general rule, when the top 5cm (2 inches) of soil
is dry you’re good to water again. Preferably, you should
water just before your plant starts to show signs of
dehydration. Trial and error is the best way to get your
watering right, so persevere until those leaves stop falling.
LEAVES CURLING
This can occur when a plant is subjected to long periods
of drought or low humidity. Try and water as regularly as
possible and provide extra moisture by misting the leaves.
BROWN LEAF EDGES
Dry air or underwatering are the major causes here.
Another culprit is over-fertilising, where leaf burn can
present as browning tips. Always follow packet instructions
and err on the side of caution when using fertiliser. It’s
much better to over-dilute than the other way around!
WILTING OR BURNT LEAVES
This is a pretty clear sign that your plant is getting too hot,
and potentially burned by harsh sun. Tropical foliage, in
particular, is easily burnt by direct sun and needs to be
positioned away from windows where the glass magnifies
the sunlight. Afternoon sun is particularly strong and
damaging to many indoor plants.
ROOT ROT
Plants with root rot aren’t able to properly absorb moisture
and nourishment from the soil, and will present as suffering
from dehydration even though the soil is completely
saturated. With this problem, prevention is definitely better
than cure, and adequate drainage and a regular watering
schedule are the best ways to avoid root rot. If the plant
is salvageable, remove it from the soil and give the roots
a good rinse. With a sharp pair of scissors or secateurs,
remove the affected roots. You may also need to remove
up to half of the foliage. Dipping the roots in a fungicide
solution will kill off any fungus present. Make sure you wash
the affected pot well with disinfectant or diluted bleach to
avoid spreading the fungus to the freshly potted plant. A