What is killing your indoor plants? Avoid these common mistakes

Indoor plants require proper maintenance and care. If your indoor plants are dying too soon, you may be making these common mistakes (Image: Pexels)

Indoor plants have many advantages. Not only do they bring closed spaces to life, but they also purify the air, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance productivity. However, they require proper maintenance and care. If your indoor plants are dying too soon, here are some common mistakes you may be making:

Overwatering: This is possibly one of the most common mistakes plant parents make. Overwatering leads to excess moisture, which causes root rot and makes the plant more prone to disease. It’s best to assess the soil and ensure it’s dry before watering.

Underwatering: Underwatering affects plant health as much as overwatering. When plants are not watered properly, they wilt and fail to develop. Check the soil and water it if it’s dry to touch.

Inadequate Lighting: Lighting plays an important role in healthy plant growth. It’s crucial to know which plants can be placed indoors and how much light they need. Some plants grow best outdoors in direct sunlight, while others prefer low light.

Low Humidity: Indoor plants often require high humidity, which can be achieved by placing the pot on a water-filled tray. Humidifiers or pebbles can also be used for increasing humidity.

Incorrect Temperature: Indoor plants need specific temperature ranges to survive, and generally prefer daytime temperatures. Avoid placing them near hot or cool vents, or fireplaces.

Wrong Soil Mix: The right soil mix helps in sustaining plant growth and should be specific to the plant. For indoor plants, it is important to have a plotting mix that help in drainage.

Missing Pot Drainage: Pots should have drainage holes to prevent water from collecting and causing root rot. Ensure pots have proper drainage or use a liner to remove excess water.

Ignoring Pests: Timely pest control is essential for indoor plants. They may be affected by spider mites, fungus gnats, or mealybugs, which should be treated with insecticidal soaps or neem oil sprays.

Skipping Fertilisation: Nutrition is vital for indoor plants. Since they lack natural sunlight and soil systems, it’s essential to apply a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser every few weeks.

Poor Air Circulation: Air circulation is as vital as lighting for indoor plants. Good air quality supports their longevity. Ensure there’s enough space between plants and avoid blocking air vents.