Problems and Pests
Most plant problems start with conditions: light, water, airflow, temperature, soil, or spacing. Pests and diseases are easier to manage when the plant is not already stressed.
Common Symptoms
Section titled “Common Symptoms”| Symptom | Possible causes |
|---|---|
| Yellow lower leaves | Overwatering, low light, natural aging, nutrient shortage |
| Crispy edges | Underwatering, low humidity, salt buildup, heat |
| Soft black stems | Rot from wet roots or cold damage |
| Stretching growth | Insufficient light |
| White cottony patches | Mealybugs |
| Fine webbing and stippling | Spider mites |
| Sticky residue | Scale, aphids, whitefly |
| Powdery white leaf coating | Powdery mildew |
First Response
Section titled “First Response”Isolate affected plants, remove heavily damaged growth, inspect leaf undersides and stems, adjust watering and light, and avoid fertilizing a stressed plant until conditions are corrected.