For every gardener and houseplant owner, there will come a time to deal with dying plants. Living plants are often more complicated and needy than they seem, and even when we do everything in our power to keep them alive, sometimes the worst happens. Luckily, there are many situations where dying plants can actually be saved. Here are some tips and tricks for things to try:
Watering
Sometimes all a dying plant needs is a good drink of water. If you notice a plant's leaves drooping or developing dry, crispy edges, try giving it some water. It's also a good idea to check the soil with your finger or a moisture meter to make sure it's dry.
Repotting
Plants can start to decline rapidly because of poor soil quality. Whether the soil is simply old and devoid of nutrients or if it's over-saturated and causing root rot, emptying the pot and starting fresh with new soil can work wonders for a dying plant. Carefully inspect the roots for signs of rot before replanting.
Trimming
While houseplants don't require the same amount of regular pruning as outdoor plants, they can still benefit from the occasional trim. Using clean, sharp scissors or clippers, remove any withered foliage close to the bottom of the plant. If you have trailing plants with long, leggy vines, clipping them shorter can help promote newer, healthier growth. Just be careful not to cut off too much at once. Doing so can shock the plant and make it wilt quicker than before.
Each plant is unique, which may make it difficult to diagnose problems. However, if you keep these tips in mind, you can often save dying plants before it's too late.
About the Author
Linda Cappello, Broker, GRI, ABR
Linda A. Cappello, Owner/Broker of Cappello Realty Shoreline Properties. Cappello Realty is a full service boutique Real Estate firm that specializes in 06855 - East Norwalk, and services all of Norwalk and Fairfield County, CT. Linda has been in the Real Estate business for 20+ years, spending 18 of them as a Owner/Broker. Being a Broker adds a lot responsibility to her job. She is responsible for overseeing every transaction and agent in the office. This is a challenge that she looks forward to and takes very seriously. She is constantly taking continuing education classes and attending seminars to keep abreast of the ever changing market as well as the industry standards, rules and regulations.
She is a native to East Norwalk, and has an in-depth knowledge of the city that she loves, as well as the intricacies of the many unique neighborhoods and areas that Norwalk offers. Linda offers her clients a network of professionals ranging from Attorneys, Mortgage Brokers, Home Stagers and Home Inspectors to any and all pros that you may need for a successful transaction and for the convenience of her clients.
"My job doesn't end at the closing table. It goes far beyond that, keeping in touch and staying friends who refer their family and friends. A lot of my business is referral business which is the greatest accomplishment and honor of all. Earning my clients trust."
