Decline in Houseplants (5705)

Plant decline is a catchall phrase that describes symptoms caused by poor horticultural practices that include improper watering, fertilization, and lighting, as well as fungal, bacterial, viral, or nematode diseases.  Most decline symptoms describe poor plant growth followed by gradual dieback symptoms.  Many decline symptoms on houseplants are caused by improper cultural practices, such as over-watering that will lead to root rot.  In addition, plants that are over-fertilized will have high fertilizer salt levels in the growing medium that will also lead to root death and root rot.  Plants weakened by low light conditions will be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Pathogens causing decline can be found in either the growing medium or in the shoot system.

Always inspect plants carefully before purchase, and isolate new plants for several weeks before mixing them with the rest of your collection.  Unless you have a greenhouse, decline diseases will not spread rapidly in indoor environments, and pesticides will not be needed for disease management.  Plants exhibiting decline symptoms will need attention to correct the cultural practices contributing to poor plant health.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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