Latest news with #HouseplantClinic
The Guardian
7 days ago
- General
- The Guardian
Houseplant clinic: has my yucca been overwatered?
What's the problem? My daughter has a yucca plant on her landing, and while the lower side looks fine, the taller side is struggling. She suspects her partner might have overwatered it. Any advice? Diagnosis Yuccas are drought-tolerant and sensitive to overwatering, and yellowing leaves, soft areas on the trunk or drooping stems are all indicators of this. Excess moisture often leads to stress or root rot. This may explain why the taller side, which perhaps has deeper roots so sits in wet soil longer, is suffering more noticeably. Prescription Lift the yucca from its pot to inspect the roots (you can do this by laying it on its side if that makes it easier). Healthy roots are firm and pale, while overwatered roots will appear mushy, brown or smelly. Trim away any affected roots using sterilised scissors. Repot your yucca in fresh, well-draining compost mixed with sand or perlite. Ideally, wait until the top few inches of soil feel completely dry before watering again. Prevention Ensure adequate drainage holes and water sparingly, especially during winter or in lower-light areas. Before watering, feel the soil with your finger. Got a plant dilemma? Email saturday@ with 'Houseplant clinic' in the subject line
The Guardian
20-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
Houseplant clinic: My jade plant looks jaded
What's the problem? My jade plant's leaves are turning red and falling off. Diagnosis The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is a relatively hardy succulent that can develop red leaves when exposed to intense sunlight. However, this can also be caused by stress factors, such as temperature fluctuations or inconsistent watering. Some reddening is normal, but excessive redness accompanied by leaf drop indicates the plant is unhappy. Prescription Consider moving your plant to a spot with indirect bright light. Water weekly; add enough to see the water escape through the pot's drainage holes and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid sudden temperature changes and draughts. Prevention Be aware of seasonal sunlight changes; you might need to move your plant in summer. Maintain a consistent care routine during the growing period so the plant doesn't dry out. Provide stable temperatures, don't overwater, and ensure adequate light without prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Inspect regularly for signs of stress. Got a plant dilemma? Email saturday@ with 'Houseplant clinic' in the subject line
