How to Fix Your Houseplant
We all have that one houseplant that we’ve neglected for a little too long. Maybe it’s been sitting in the corner of your living room for months, and it’s starting to look a little worse for wear. There are a number of reasons why you may need to fix your houseplant, but we’re here to help you figure out if it’s worth saving and the first steps on how to bring your houseplant back from the brink.

General Steps to Take to Save Your Plant
Whatever the case may be, don’t despair! There are a few general steps you can take to begin the process of fixing your houseplant.
1. Diagnose the problem
The first step is to figure out what’s wrong with your plant. Is it overwatered? Underwatered? Sunburned? Pest-infested? This, of course, is always easier said than done. But once you know what the problem is, you can start to fix it.

2. Address the problem
If your plant is overwatered, let the soil dry out completely before watering it again. If it’s underwatered, give it a good soaking. If it’s sunburned, move it to a shadier spot. And if it’s pest-infested, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Article on Beginner Houseplant: Treating and Preventing Scale on Houseplants
3. Provide proper care
Once you’ve addressed the immediate problem, you need to make sure you’re providing your plant with the proper care. This means watering it regularly, giving it the right amount of sunlight, and fertilizing it as needed.

4. Be patient
It may take some time for your plant to recover. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep up with the proper care, and eventually your plant will be back to its old self.
Additional Tips for Fixing a Sad Houseplant
- Check the roots. If the roots are brown and mushy, they’re rotten and need to be removed. Cut away the rotten roots with a sharp knife, and repot the plant in fresh soil.
- Prune the plant. If the plant has any dead or damaged leaves, remove them. This will help the plant focus its energy on new growth.
- Increase the humidity. If the air in your home is dry, your plant may be suffering. Try increasing the humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray or misting the leaves with water.
- Be patient. It may take some time for your plant to recover. Don’t give up!
Related Article on Beginner Houseplant: Humidity and Houseplants
When Your Indoor Plant is Too Far Gone
Here are some signs that your houseplant is beyond saving:
- The plant has no leaves or stems.
- There is no green left in the stem if you cut it.
- It’s roots are mushy or black.
- The plant is infested with pests or diseases.
- It has been severely damaged by frost or other environmental factors.
- The plant has been neglected for an extended period of time.

If you see any of these signs, it’s best to give up on the plant and start over. Trying to save a dying plant can be frustrating and time-consuming, and it’s not always possible to bring a plant back from the brink of death. It’s better to focus your energy on healthy plants that will thrive in your home.
Related Article on Beginner Houseplant: Root Rot in Houseplants
Conclusion
In short, the best way to save your plants is to make sure they don’t get to the brink of death to begin with. Here are some tips for preventing your houseplants from dying:

- Water your plants regularly, but don’t overwater them.
- Fertilize your plants according to the instructions on the fertilizer label.
- Prune your plants regularly to encourage new growth.
- Rotate your plants so that all sides get equal amounts of sunlight.
- Keep your plants away from drafts and direct sunlight.
- Monitor your plants for signs of pests and diseases, and treat them immediately if you see any problems.
By following these tips, you can help keep your houseplants healthy and thriving for years to come.