Keeping plants healthy requires knowing the signs of common issues and how to address them. Here’s what to watch for and how to correct these problems to keep your garden thriving.
Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of plant decline. If you notice brown or black spots on leaves, mushy stems, or wilting despite wet soil, excess moisture could be the culprit.
To fix this, allow the soil to dry out between waterings, improve drainage by loosening compacted soil or adding organic matter, and ensure pots have proper drainage holes.
Underwatering
Plants that wilt and have dry soil are likely not receiving enough water. To address this, water deeply and consistently, making sure the soil absorbs moisture instead of running off. Mulching around plants can also help retain moisture and reduce the frequency of watering.
Insect Damage
Pests can wreak havoc on your plants, causing holes in leaves, distorted growth, and even damage to stems. Some insects leave silvery patches with tiny black spots or rust-colored spots on leaves.
To control pests, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil as a natural solution. Encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs can also help keep harmful pests in check. If the infestation is severe, remove and dispose of the most damaged leaves or plants to prevent further spread.
Fertilizer Issues
Using too little fertilizer can lead to stunted growth and yellowing leaves, while too much can cause brown or black leaf edges or lush green growth with little flowering. If your plants are struggling, apply a balanced fertilizer according to the recommended guidelines. If you’ve over-fertilized, flushing the soil with water can help remove excess nutrients and prevent further damage. Always follow proper fertilizing schedules to keep plants healthy without overwhelming them.
Microorganisms & Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases and microorganisms can cause a white powdery coating on leaves, as well as leaf browning or spotting.
To prevent and manage these issues, ensure plants have good air circulation by spacing them properly. Remove and dispose of infected leaves, and if necessary, use a fungicide to stop the spread. Keeping foliage dry by watering at the base instead of overhead can also help reduce fungal problems.
Other Plant Problems
Animals can be a major source of plant damage, especially when the bark is stripped from trees or roots are eaten by grubs or gophers. If you notice sudden plant death or gnawed roots, protective barriers like fencing or netting can help. Treating your lawn for grubs may also be necessary if they are causing widespread damage.
Tree graft issues can also cause plants to decline unexpectedly. Sometimes, a tree appears to thrive for several years before showing signs of distress due to an incompatible graft. Unfortunately, there is no way to fix this problem once it occurs, and the best solution is to remove and replace the tree with a better-matched variety.
Get Expert Help
Struggling with a plant problem? Visit your nearest Meadows Farms location for the best solutions to keep your plants thriving. Our experts are ready to help diagnose issues and recommend the best treatments for a healthy, beautiful garden.