We've all been there—excitedly bringing home a new plant, only to watch it struggle (or worse). I’ve killed more houseplants than I care to admit in my early days as a plant parent. But each "failure" taught me something valuable, and now my collection is thriving.
Here are my top 5 biggest mistakes—plus exactly how I turned things around. If you're making any of these, don't beat yourself up; they're super common and totally fixable!
1. Overwatering Everything
This was my #1 killer. I'd water on a schedule, thinking more love = more water. Roots would rot, leaves would yellow, and plants would collapse.
How I fixed it: Switched to the "soak and dry" method—water thoroughly only when the top 2 inches of soil are dry (check with your finger!). I also added better drainage holes and switched to terracotta pots.
Pro tip: Most houseplants prefer slight underwatering over drowning.
2. Ignoring Light Requirements
I’d place plants wherever they looked cute, like a fiddle leaf fig in a dark corner. Result? Leggy growth, dropped leaves, and no new shoots.
How I fixed it: Learned to read labels and observe my home's light. Moved low-light lovers (like snake plants) to shady spots and sun-hungry ones (like succulents) near south-facing windows. Added grow lights for winter boosts.
Pro tip: East/west windows = medium light; north = low; south = bright (use sheer curtains to diffuse).
3. Skipping Pest Checks
Tiny bugs? I’d pretend they weren’t there until an infestation took over (looking at you, spider mites and mealybugs).
How I fixed it: Started weekly inspections—check undersides of leaves and stems. Quarantined new plants for 2 weeks. Treated early with neem oil sprays or insecticidal soap.
Pro tip: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth monthly to prevent dust buildup (which attracts pests).
4. Repotting Too Soon (or Never)
I'd repot every new plant immediately, shocking the roots. Or I'd leave them root-bound forever, stunting growth.
How I fixed it: Now I only repot when roots circle the drainage holes or growth slows (usually every 1–2 years). Use a pot just 1–2 inches larger with fresh, well-draining soil.
Pro tip: Spring is the best time—plants recover faster during active growth.
5. Using the Wrong Soil
Generic garden soil from outside? Big mistake—it compacted and stayed soggy.
How I fixed it: Switched to specialized mixes: airy potting soil for tropicals, cactus mix for succulents. Added perlite or orchid bark for extra drainage.
Pro tip: Good soil = 50% of success. It should feel light and fluffy, never dense.
Quick Summary Table: Mistakes vs. Fixes
Mistake | Common Signs | Quick Fix | Prevention Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
Overwatering | Yellow leaves, mushy stems | Let soil dry out fully; improve drainage | Finger test before watering |
Wrong Lighting | Leggy/stretched growth, leaf drop | Relocate or add grow lights | Observe your windows' natural light |
Ignoring Pests | Webbing, sticky residue, spots | Isolate + treat with neem oil | Weekly leaf checks |
Bad Repotting Timing | Slow growth, roots escaping | Repot in spring, only when needed | Check roots annually |
Wrong Soil | Poor drainage, root rot | Use plant-specific airy mixes | Add perlite for better aeration |
What's your biggest houseplant mistake so far? Reply and share—I read every one and might feature it in a future post!