Five Reasons Your Houseplants Keep Dying (And How to Stop It)

Let’s face it—most of us have been there. You bring home a gorgeous new houseplant, full of hope and good intentions, only to watch it slowly wither away. It’s frustrating, and it can leave you wondering if you’re just not cut out for plant parenthood. But here’s the thing: it’s almost never you—it’s the care routine.

After years of trial and (a lot of) error, I’ve learned the most common reasons houseplants struggle and, more importantly, how to fix them. If you’ve been accidentally sending your leafy friends to an early grave, here are five possible reasons why—and what you can do to save the rest of your collection.

1. You’re Overwatering

This is the number one culprit when it comes to plant deaths. It’s easy to think you’re helping by giving your plants plenty of water, but too much can suffocate the roots and lead to root rot.

How to Fix It:

Let the soil dry out between waterings. Most plants prefer to dry out a little at the top before their next drink. Always check the soil with your finger—if it’s dry an inch or two down, it’s time to water. And make sure your pots have drainage holes so excess water can escape!

2. Your Plant Isn’t Getting Enough Light

Light is a plant’s lifeline, and if yours isn’t getting enough, it’s going to struggle. Many plants sold as “low light” still need bright, indirect light to thrive.

How to Fix It:
Move your plant closer to a bright window, but avoid direct sunlight unless it’s a sun-loving species like a cactus or succulent. If your home is naturally dark, a grow light can work wonders.

3. You’re Using the Wrong Pot or Soil

The wrong pot or soil mix can cause your plant’s roots to suffocate or dry out too quickly. For example, a plant in heavy, compacted soil won’t get enough air, while one in a pot with no drainage is practically doomed.

How to Fix It:
Repot your plant in a well-draining soil mix that suits its needs (succulents need sandy soil, while tropical plants like something richer). Always choose a pot with drainage holes or use a nursery pot inside your decorative planter.

4. The Humidity Is Too Low

Many houseplants, especially tropical ones, love a bit of humidity. If your home is dry—especially in winter with the heating on—your plant’s leaves might brown or crisp up.

How to Fix It:
Boost the humidity by grouping your plants together, misting them (lightly!), or placing a tray of water and pebbles near them. A small humidifier works wonders too, especially for humidity-loving plants like ferns and calatheas.

5. Pests Have Moved In

Sometimes, it’s not you at all—it’s pests. Spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats can show up out of nowhere, feeding on your plants and causing them to decline.

How to Fix It:
Check your plants regularly for signs of pests, like sticky leaves or webbing. If you find anything, isolate the plant and treat it with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a gentle homemade remedy (like diluted washing-up liquid). Consistency is key—repeat treatments weekly until the pests are gone.

Final Thoughts

Houseplants don’t come with a rulebook, and mistakes are part of the learning process. The key is paying attention to what your plants need—and not being too hard on yourself when things go wrong. Even seasoned plant parents lose a plant or two!

If your plants are struggling, start with these five common issues. With a few adjustments to your care routine, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving indoor jungle.