Notice your trees and plants looking a little droopy lately? There are many signs of stress that have different potential causes. But the one thing many people want to know is, will my plant bounce back? The answer depends on several factors.

Signs of Plant Trouble and Hope

There are a few telltale signs your plant is going through something:

• Wilting, misshapen, or torn leaves
• Discolored leaves and/or bark growths
• Brittle bark
• Soggy roots
• Insects

But there are also ways to tell if your plant is still showing signs of life:

• Green and pliable stems
• Plump, white roots
• New growth

Discolored or drooping leaves can indicate disease or watering issues. Torn or holey leaves can be a sign of bugs, even if you don’t see the actual pest. Pinpointing the cause is a step in the right direction to determining if the plant will survive.

Common Causes of Plant Decline

While plants often indicate there’s a problem, properly diagnosing the issue isn’t always easy. Here are some tips on how to tell what could be wrong and how to fix it.

• Overwatering: The soil is sopping wet. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure proper drainage.
• Underwatering: The soil bone dry a few inches deep. Water deeply.
• Transplant shock: If you’ve just moved the plant to a different spot, it could initially wilt. Give it time to adjust. Make sure it has the proper amount of water.
• Lighting issues: Research whether your particular plant prefers direct sun or partial shade. Plant accordingly.
• Nutrient deficiency: Test the soil to help determine the pH level and if it’s enough for what your plant desires. Fertilize accordingly.

Once you’ve tried to adjust the water, light, and nutrient issues, keep a close eye on your plant to see if it improves. Many plants can recover from wilting, especially if it’s still showing signs of life and is given the right care.

How to Help Your Plant Recover

It’s best to act fast to assess the plant’s condition, properly identify the problem, and implement the right solution. In addition to watering and fertilizing, there are ways you can help your plant recover faster.

• Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves and branches to encourage new growth.
• Root-bound plants should be transplanted to a larger pot or open spot with fresh soil.
• Aerate to help prevent soil compaction and allow air and water to flow freely to the roots.

It takes time for plants to recover, especially if you’re currently experiencing extreme weather. Be patient and keep an eye on your plant’s progress. Contact the tree care specialist at Elite Tree Care for help determining what your specific plant may need and what you can do to help it bounce back.

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