Frequently Asked Questions

There are several reasons why plant leaves may turn yellow, including overwatering or underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, and disease. To address the issue, you should first identify the cause of the yellowing and take appropriate action. If the problem is overwatering, allow the soil to dry out before watering again. If it is a nutrient deficiency, consider fertilizing your plants or adding compost to the soil. If pests are the issue, consider using organic pest control methods, or consult with a professional gardener or plant specialist.

To successfully overwinter plants indoors, you should first identify the type of plant and its specific requirements for light, humidity, and temperature. Provide adequate light by placing the plant near a bright window or using grow lights if necessary. Maintain proper humidity levels by using a humidifier or placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Keep the temperature consistent and appropriate for the plant’s needs. Be sure to monitor the plant for signs of stress or disease and take appropriate action as needed. 

Houseplant leaves may drop for a variety of reasons, including overwatering, underwatering, pest infestations, or disease. To address the issue, first identify the cause and take appropriate action. If the problem is overwatering, reduce watering frequency or repot the plant in well-draining soil. If the issue is underwatering, increase watering frequency and ensure the soil is adequately moist. If pests are the problem, use organic pest control methods or consult with a professional gardener or plant specialist.

The white furry stuff on plants is often a sign of a pest infestation, specifically mealybugs or whiteflies. Mealybugs look like tiny white cottony masses, while whiteflies look like small white or yellow flies. To address the issue, first isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread of pests to other plants. Remove as much of the infestation as possible by hand or with a soft brush, and then treat the plant with an organic insecticide, a soap solution, or just rinse it off and go straight to using beneficial insects. For a mealybug infestation, our beneficial insect recommendations are ladybugs, lacewings, and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri. 

Sticky leaves can be caused by droplets of extrafloral nectaries, which are a type of nectar your plant secretes as a way to attract beneficial carnivorous insects like ants. This makes for a symbiotic relationship in the wild, giving the ants food and the plant protection from other pests. 

Its also possible that sticky leaves on plants may be a sign of pest infestations, such as aphids or scale insects, which excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. If this is your issue, identify the type of pest and take appropriate action, such as using organic pest control methods or consulting with a professional gardener or plant specialist. You can also remove the sticky substance with a damp cloth or by rinsing the plant with water. 

The type of soil you should use for repotting depends on the type of plant and its specific requirements. In general, a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and rich in nutrients is ideal for most plants. For aroids, like the beloved monstera deliciosa, its important to add amendments to your soil mix to make it more breathable and fast draining. I personally like to add coco coir chunks, perlite, orchid or repti bark to a high-quality potting mix for my aroids. 

You can also consider adding organic matter, such as worm castings or compost, to improve soil structure and fertility. Be sure to choose a potting mix that is appropriate for your specific plant, and avoid using garden soil, which may be too heavy and compact for potted plants.