Foliage

Foliage Care

Tips for Healthier, Happier Plants!

Sunlight

  • Place your plant in a spot with plenty of indirect, natural light—think a bright, sunny room but out of direct rays.

  • Need to move it to a brighter or dimmer spot? Try doing it gradually to let your plant adjust. Plants don’t love sudden changes! Even when moved slowly, they may go through an “adjustment period.” Be patient! They typically bounce right back.

  • Pro Tip: If natural light’s hard to come by, try a grow light to give your plant the boost it needs.

Watering

  • Water often enough to keep the soil slightly damp but not soaking. When the top inch feels dry or the plant feels unusually light when you pick it up, it’s time for a drink!

  • Pro Tip: Stick your finger an inch into the soil to check moisture—if it’s dry, add water; if it’s damp, you’re good.

Avoid These Common Watering Mistakes:

  • Over-Watering: Signs include wilting, soupy soil, and, unfortunately, root rot. Aim for damp, not drenched. Don’t forget to empty any standing water from saucers or outer pots to keep the roots happy and plants thriving!

  • Under-Watering: Look out for curled or crispy leaves and dry, crusty soil—that’s when you know your plant’s calling for more water! A thirsty plant will also be a light-weight plant.

Temperature

  • Keep your plant happy by maintaining a room temperature between 65℉-85℉.

  • In the summer, many plants may enjoy some time outdoors. Just be mindful they have the same care needs that they would have inside - watch out for direct sun, and if it rains, make sure they have proper drainage!

  • Pro Tip: Avoid placing plants near heat sources, air vents, or cold drafts—sudden temperature swings can stress them.

Grooming

  • Don’t be alarmed if a leaf or two occasionally turns yellow or brown. It’s what they do and does not always indicate a problem.

  • Help your plant look its best by trimming off any dead or yellowing leaves. This keeps it neat and encourages fuller growth.

  • Pro Tip: When trimming leaves, make sure to disinfect your scissors or shears in something like rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or even vinegar to avoid the potential spread of bacteria or disease.

  • See below for things to keep an eye out that may indicate a problem.

  • Spotting new “baby plants” in the pot? Congrats! Carefully repot these little ones in their own containers to watch them grow.

Exceptions: There are a few foliage plants that are exceptions to the rules above. Check out our Signature Collection care page for variety-specific tips to learn more!

  • Included: Alocasias, Calathea, Dracaena, Ferns, Ficus, Philodendrons, Sansevierias, and ZZ Plants

Signs of a Potential Problem:

  • Light Webbing

    • Problem: This could be spider mites, which are tiny pests that weave fine webbing between leaves.

    • Fix: Isolate the plant and mist with water; spider mites hate moisture! You can also use a gentle insecticidal soap or wipe the leaves with a cloth dipped in water and mild soap.

  • Brown Spots on Leaves

    • Problem: This might be due to underwatering, overwatering, or a fungal issue.

    • Fix: Check soil moisture levels. For fungal issues, prune affected leaves, and make sure there’s good airflow around the plant.

  • White Mold on Soil Surface

    • Problem: This is usually harmless, but it’s often a sign of excess moisture or poor airflow.

    • Fix: Scoop off the mold, let the soil dry out a bit between waterings, and ensure there’s good airflow. You can also add a bit of cinnamon to the soil, as it has natural antifungal properties.

  • Yellowing Leaves

    • Problem: These could be from overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or low light.

    • Fix: Adjust your watering routine and ensure the plant is getting adequate indirect light. Consider a diluted fertilizer for nutrient support.

  • Curled Leaves

    • Problem: Curling is often caused by too little water or too much direct sunlight.

    • Fix: Increase watering if the soil is dry or move the plant to an area with indirect light if it’s in direct sun.

  • Sticky Residue on Leaves or Nearby Surfaces

    • Problem: This is a sign of sap-sucking pests like aphids or scale.

    • Fix: Rinse the plant with water, and use insecticidal soap or a diluted neem oil spray to deter pests.

  • Drooping or Wilting

    • Problem: These can indicate underwatering, overwatering, or even root rot.

    • Fix: Check the soil moisture to find the cause. If it’s overwatered, let the soil dry before the next watering; if underwatered, give it a good soak.

  • White Fuzzy Spots on Leaves

    • Problem: White spots could be mealybugs, which appear as small, cotton-like clusters.

    • Fix: Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently remove them, or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.

If you catch these early, they’re usually easy to manage. Regularly inspecting your plants is a great habit to keep them looking their best!

Trying to put a face to a name when it comes to your plant? Take a look through our visual Plant Finder below to correctly identify your new leafy friend.