PLANTS & PRUNING

What’s wrong with my plant? A simple way to diagnose common problems

Yellow leaves, brown tips, mildew, dieback and poor flowering can have very different causes.

Yellow leaves

Check whether yellowing is on old leaves or new leaves, then look at soil moisture. Both prolonged wetness and drought can reduce nutrient uptake and cause yellowing.

Brown or crispy edges

Possible causes include drought, wind scorch, salt or fertiliser damage and root stress. Container plants can dry much faster than surrounding soil.

White coating or spotting

A powdery white surface can indicate mildew, while dark spotting may have several fungal or environmental causes. Good airflow, sensible watering and removing heavily affected material can help.

Sudden dieback

Inspect stems, roots and the base of the plant. Damage, waterlogging, root rot, pests and disease are all possibilities.