Signs Your Indoor Plant Is Unhealthy (and How to Fix It)

Verdure Studio
Apr 23
4 min read

Updated: Apr 28

Signs Your Indoor Plant Is Unhealthy (and How to Fix It) - Verdure Studio, Plant Design, Plant Care, Succulent Workshops in Boston

Indoor plants can completely transform a space—bringing life, color, and a sense of calm to your home or office. But even the most well-loved plants can show signs of distress, and many plant owners don’t realize there's a problem until it's too late. Learning how to recognize and address the early signs of an unhealthy plant is essential to helping your greenery thrive year-round.

Here’s what to look for the most common symptoms of unhealthy indoor plants, what they mean, and exactly how to fix them. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned plant parent, you’ll leave with actionable tips to revive your plant and prevent future issues.

Why Do Indoor Plants Get Sick?

Before we dive into the symptoms, it’s important to understand that indoor plants get "sick" for several reasons—most of which are completely preventable. These include:

Overwatering or underwatering
Incorrect lighting conditions
Poor soil or lack of nutrients
Inadequate humidity or air circulation
Pests or fungal infections

Many of these issues can be addressed with small changes to your routine. Let’s explore the signs your plant may be struggling.

1. Yellowing Leaves

Yellow leaves are one of the most common indicators of plant stress. This could be due to overwatering, underwatering, lack of nutrients, or even too much sunlight.

How to Fix It:

Check soil moisture—if the soil feels soggy, let it dry out before watering again.
If it’s bone dry, give your plant a thorough drink.
Ensure your plant has proper drainage.
Avoid direct sunlight for plants that prefer indirect light.
Consider fertilizing with a balanced, water-soluble plant food.

2. Drooping or Wilting

Drooping leaves can be caused by lack of water, root rot, or sudden environmental changes like temperature fluctuations or drafts.

How to Fix It:

Use the finger test to check soil moisture.
Move the plant away from cold windows or heating vents.
If overwatering is the issue, allow the soil to dry out completely and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.

3. Brown or Crispy Leaf Edges

Brown tips or edges are often a sign of low humidity, over-fertilizing, or inconsistent watering.

How to Fix It:

Use a humidifier, especially for tropical plants.
Avoid letting soil completely dry out for moisture-loving varieties.
Flush the soil monthly to prevent salt buildup from fertilizer.

4. Leaf Drop

If your plant is shedding healthy leaves, it may be responding to stress—often due to relocation, drafts, lack of light, or overwatering.

How to Fix It:

Keep your plant in a consistent location with stable conditions.
Make sure it's getting the appropriate light.
Monitor soil moisture and drainage.

5. Pale or Faded Leaves

A lack of nutrients, insufficient light, or overwatering can cause leaves to lose their rich green color.

How to Fix It:

Gradually increase light exposure (avoid shock from direct sun).
Use a well-balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
Repot with nutrient-rich soil if needed.

6. Moldy or Mushy Soil

If your plant’s soil smells musty or looks moldy, it’s likely retaining too much moisture—creating the perfect environment for root rot and fungus.

How to Fix It:

Remove affected soil and replace with fresh potting mix.
Repot the plant in a container with better drainage.
Cut back on watering and only water when the top inch of soil is dry.

7. Visible Pests or Sticky Residue

Aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are all common indoor pests that weaken plants and spread quickly.

How to Fix It:

Inspect the plant regularly, especially under leaves.
Isolate infected plants.
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and mild soapy water.
Use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.

8. Stunted Growth

If your plant is no longer growing, the issue could be compacted roots, poor soil, or insufficient light and nutrients.

How to Fix It:

Repot your plant into a slightly larger container.
Replace old soil with nutrient-rich potting mix.
Place the plant in a brighter location.
Fertilize monthly during spring and summer.

Preventing Future Plant Problems

Once you've identified and resolved your plant’s health issues, prevention is the key to keeping them thriving. Here are a few tips:

Choose plants that suit your space. Consider lighting and humidity before you buy.
Stick to a routine. Set reminders for watering and fertilizing.
Use bottom-watering when possible. It encourages strong roots and avoids overwatering.
Clean leaves regularly. Dust can block light absorption.
Check for pests every week. Catching issues early is crucial.

Keep Your Plants Thriving Year-Round

Catching the early warning signs of plant stress can make the difference between saving a struggling plant and having to say goodbye to it. By understanding what your plant is telling you—and how to respond—you can enjoy lush, vibrant greenery that enhances your space and your well-being.

Looking for more support with your indoor plant care? Download our free Plant Care Guides or explore our plant maintenance and plant design services to keep your greenery looking its best.