The best fix of course though is to get passionate about houseplants. This will help you learn and understand their needs better.

To test this, you can squat down right next to your plant and look for the sky. If you can see it from a window or an overhead skylight that's a good sign. If you can't see any sky at all, then you probably should think about moving your plant. Further Reading All plants need light and none want endless darkness. Give it the required light levels by reading up on your plant's needs.This is a broad topic, with lots to cover, so if you're struggling to find the balance here as a proud plant parent, have a read of our watering guide linked just below. Why do so many people find it difficult to rear houseplants? What are some of the common mistakes they can avoid when they are getting started?

Cacti and succulents have the ability to store water in their leaves or stems and prefer bright, sunny spots. Make sure the compost is free-draining to prevent water-logging. You can add grit to the compost for cacti and succulents if you feel the plant would benefit; it’s worth doing, especially if you’re repotting. You can also buy a specially formulated cacti compost in most garden centres. For succulents, adding sand to the mix will help with drainage. You can remove the dead leaves in late summer, but, as the plant isn’t happy being moved, try not to turn it too much. Both over- and under-watering can cause leaf drop on ficus, and it’s best to make sure after watering that you let the water drain through to the bottom of the plant pot and remove any excess. Plants have a direct connection to mental wellbeing. At the very basic level, plants offer us instant visual relief. Think of how you feel when you enter an apartment that has a few plants versus a stark office setting. The fluid, natural forms of plants break the hard, inanimate settings we inhabit. It’s like watching fish, an activity prescribed those who are stressed, anxious, and even heart patients. What prompted you to write this book? When did you start planning it, writing it, and who did you have in mind as your primary reader?

Killing Houseplants (by accident)

Another tip for when you go on vacation: remove the saucers from under the potted plants and place them on a wet towel in the sink or in the bathtub. This way, the plants can pull up the moisture they need when they need it. Tip #7: The Proper Soil Many houseplants have strong air-filtering effects. (Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Pixabay – FreePhotos) Typically, losing leaves or leaves turning yellow is a sign of poor drainage, too little light or not enough water. Similarly, leaves turning a pale colour probably means that your houseplant needs to be moved to a brighter spot. Yellow leaves can also mean you have a problem with a house plant pest. Keep your plants clean, Dust and debris can accumulate on your plant's leaves, hindering their ability to photosynthesize and grow. Regularly dust and wipe down your plants with a damp cloth to keep them clean and healthy. Additionally, make sure to prune any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth. Observe your houseplants very closely. This way, you can recognize a pest infestation in time to treat and cure your plant. Tip #10: Leaf-Care Mother in law’s tongue: Scary name, strong plant. Mother in law’s tongue doesn’t need a ton of light or water to thrive — just plop ‘er in a shady corner and give her a drink every couple of weeks.