Common Houseplant Diseases: Identification & Treatment

Most houseplant diseases are fungal, fueled by overwatering. Viral and bacterial issues occur but are less common indoors. Early identification saves plants.

Fungal Diseases

• Anthracnose: Yellow leaf tips turning brown/black. Remove infected leaves.
• Root & stem rot: Soft, brown/black roots/stems from wet soil. Often fatal; repot in sterile mix if caught early.
• Leaf spots: Brown spots with yellow margins or black dots. Remove affected leaves; neem oil helps.
• Botrytis (gray mold): Fuzzy gray mold on foliage. Discard plant; sterilize pot. Prevent by removing dead material daily.
• Powdery mildew: White powdery coating. Improve ventilation, reduce humidity, water carefully. Severe cases: discard.

Viral & Bacterial Issues

• Viruses: Stunted growth, crinkled/mottled leaves. Spread by insects (aphids, nematodes). No cure—discard plant.
• Bacterial dropsy/edema: Water-soaked spots with corky swellings. Repot with better drainage/ventilation; may not recover.

Prevention: avoid overwatering, ensure drainage, promote airflow, and inspect regularly.