Alex O'Brien
Home & Garden

6 things your plant's leaves are trying to tell you

While your plants are not likely to be striking up a conversation about the pleasant weather, they are trying to communicate with you visually. Unless you know what these signs mean, you won’t be able to respond with the appropriate action.

1. If your plant’s leave are brown and crunchy, it’s thirsty

Keep your plants well watered by watering until moist but not waterlogged.

2. If your plant’s leaves are missing, it’s thirsty

Without enough water, plants can’t have new growth. If it’s the same size as when you bought it a few months ago, there’s a good chance you aren’t watering it enough.

3. If your plant’s leaves are yellow at the edges, it’s getting too much water

Overwatering can cause the edges to go yellow, so reduce the amount that you are giving. Plants still need water, so don’t cut it off altogether.

4. If your plant’s leaves are discolored, it is being overwatered.

Did you know that giving too much water is the number one killer of houseplants? Most people worry about not giving it enough but in fact there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Does the pot have enough drainage to avoid it becoming waterlogged?

5. If your plant’s leaves have gone pale, it is hungry

Consider giving this plant fertiliser more often if your plant’s leaves suddenly lose colour. You can also try moving the plant to a bigger tub as this can help too.

6. If your plant’s leaves are leaning to one side, it needs more light

Think how you feel being cooped up inside all day – your plant is the same and needs natural light to feel good. Move the plant to a sunnier spot. If this is not possible due to a lack of space, it might be time to pass the plant on to a friend with a sunnier space.

Have you had any success bringing a sad plant back to life? Share with us in the comments section below.

Related links:

Houseplants that can survive dark corners

Tips for gardening on uneven ground

Tips for designing a garden on a budget

Tags:
home, garden, gardening, plants, leaves