How to revive a dying snake plant? 7 signs and treatment

The Dracaena trifasciata, commonly known as the Mother-in-law’s tongue, Sansevieria, or Snake Plant, is one of the hardest indoor plants. With such a hardy plant, it is simple to believe that nothing bad can happen to it or that it can tolerate any amount of neglect. Despite their reputation for being low-maintenance, these plants can still face challenges that may lead to their decline or even death.

There are different things that can cause the plant to become unhealthy. Giving it too much water can make its roots rot. If it doesn’t get enough sunlight, it might not grow well. Extreme temperatures, bad soil, or pests can also make a green friend sick.

If you find your Snake Plant dying, immediate action is crucial to salvage its health. In this article, we will explore the signs of a dying Snake Plant and common problems it may face, and provide solutions on how to help revive it. With some patience and care, you can bring your plant back to life!

Signs that your Snake Plant is Dying and how to revive it

Below are some of the various signs your Sansevieria is struggling with and the best way to address them. If your plant displays any of the following symptoms, it may be nearing the end of its life.

Just remember, if you see these signs in your Sansevieria, it doesn’t mean it’s definitely going to die. If you spot the problems early and take care of them quickly, your plant can get better fast. These plants are tough and can heal quickly, like a superhero plant. So, once you start giving them the right help, fixing the problem is pretty easy.

1. Leaves are turning yellow, drooping, and becoming soft

Cause

Yellowing, wilting, and softening of Snake Plant leaves could indicate overwatering or improper drainage. It’s a recurring problem most plant parents have to deal with. Overwatering means giving your Snake Plant too much water, which can cause root rot and eventually kill your green friend if not corrected.

Alternatively, check for pests like spider mites or mealybugs, which can also cause similar symptoms. To confirm if your plant is suffering from mealybug infestation, take a closer look at the affected areas. If you notice small white insects with waxy coverings resembling cotton on the stems and leaves of your Snake Plant, it means that your plant has been invaded by mealybugs.

Symptoms

• Yellowing leaves are an early warning indicator. After that, it turns mushy and soft, and the leaves will soon wilt.

• Brown spots on the leaves. These brown spots indicate that the plant has been sitting in water for too long and has started to rot.

• Leaf drop. The Mother-in-law’s tongue might start dropping its lower leaves as they start rotting from excess moisture.

• Foul odor. The soil in a pot of an overwatered plant may appear soggy or waterlogged, and have a foul odor. There could be fungal growth or mold visible on the surface of the soil, as well as around the base of the plant.

• Roting roots. Plant roots will also be harmed by overwatering. They’ll begin to mush up and change from white to rusty brown. When this occurs, the situation becomes urgent. In really bad situations, root rot can make the whole plant die in just one week.

All that is occurring above the surface will be the first indication you notice; the plant is most vulnerable to what is occurring below ground.

Overly moist soil can become compacted and prevent air from reaching the roots, leading to root rot and potentially killing the plant.

As a result, the roots will rot and lose their ability to supply essential nutrients and minerals to the leaves.

Treatment

If your Mother-in-law’s Tongue has been overwatered, don’t panic. It is possible to save your plant if you take the right steps. It’s important to act quickly and take care of it before the Sansevieria gets damaged.

To prevent overwatering, make sure to let the soil dry completely before each watering. Use pots with good drainage holes or well-draining soil.

1. Stop watering the plant and let the soil dry out completely before adding any more water. To help speed up the drying process, move the pot to a warm and sunny area. Once the soil is dry, you can check the roots for rot. Gently remove some of the soil from around the roots and examine them for discoloration or other signs of decay.

2. Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots for rot. Healthy roots are typically white or light brown and should be firm to the touch. If you notice that the roots are slimy, mushy, or have a bad odor, it could indicate root rot, and it’s important to take action as soon as possible.

Important: If caught early, Mother-in-law’s Tongue can be saved even if its roots are starting to rot. However, if the decay has spread throughout a majority of the root system, it might be impossible to save a dying Snake Plant.

3. If there are any rotten roots, cut them off with sanitized scissors or pruning shears so that the healthy parts of the plant can still grow. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes. Treat it with an appropriate fungicide.

4. Be sure to adjust your watering schedule so that you avoid overwatering in the future.
The Mother-in-law’s tongue does well in dry and semi-dry environments. It’s best to let the soil dry out between watering sessions and make sure the pot has proper drainage holes. Water only when the top inch or two of soil is dry to ensure that your Dracaena trifasciata stays healthy and strong.

2. Leaves are turning yellow, wrinkling, becoming crisper

Cause

Sansevieria with yellow-brown leaves that are dry and brittle could be a sign of underwatering.

Other potential causes of the issues may include using fertilizers in excess quantity or placing your plant under direct sunlight for long periods. If your Sansevieria plant has been exposed to direct sunlight for a long time, it could suffer from sunburn. The leaves may become scorched, turn yellow or brown, and dry out.

Symptoms

• Wilting leaves. Leaf surfaces look wrinkled and saggy. Normally the plant is standing tall and straight. If your plant’s leaves begin to droop or sag, it’s probably time for a good watering.

• Yellowing or browning of the leaves. When a plant doesn’t receive enough water, its leaves will begin to turn yellowish-brown and dry out at the tips. This can also cause the edges of the leaves to become crispy and brittle.

• Brown tips on the leaves specifically indicate that your plant is becoming thirsty and needs watering as soon as possible.

• The soil is dry. If the soil feels completely dry when you touch it, then this could be another indication that your Snake Plant needs watering. You should aim for moist but not soggy soil as overwatering can cause issues too.

Treatment

If the damage has already occurred, don’t worry too much. Remove any damaged leaves and continue to care for your Sansevieria as usual. Ensure that it receives proper moisture and temperature control and avoid any future exposure to direct sunlight.

There are a few steps you can take to help save your dying Snake Plant:

1. Water your Snake Plant: Add enough water to moisten the Sansevieria soil thoroughly. Be careful not to water the plant too much, as excessive watering can cause the roots to rot.

2. Drain excess water: Allow any excess water to drain from the plant pot and remove any standing water from the plant saucer or container.

3. Trim crispy parts of the leaves. You need to trim brown, dry, and crispy parts of your Dracaena trifasciata since they can no longer be recovered.

4. Adjust light exposure: If you suspect that your Sansevieria became dehydrated due to direct sunlight exposure, move it to a shadier spot in your home. If there are no shaded areas available, consider placing a sheer curtain over the window to filter the light. Make sure your plant gets enough sunlight (at least 4-6 hours daily) to promote healthy growth. You can place it near a window with bright but indirect light for optimal results.

5. Wait for recovery: After watering and adjusting its light exposure, give your plant time to recover. It may take some time before it starts showing signs of improvement.

6. Monitor its progress: Keep an eye on your plant’s condition over the next few days and weeks. If it doesn’t begin showing signs of improvement, then there may be other issues that need to be addressed.

3. Spots on the leaves: brown, red, or Yellow

Cause

Fungal diseases are a common cause of leaf spots on indoor plants. This can happen if the environment is too humid or if there’s low airflow around the plant.

Some of the most common fungal diseases that can affect the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue include:

Root Rot is a fungal disease caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Excessive moisture leads to the growth of fungi that attack the roots, causing them to rot. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and a foul odor. Infected roots may appear mushy and discolored. To prevent this disease, make sure the soil has good drainage, and water the plant only when the top inch of the soil feels dry.

Fusarium Leaf Spot is a plant disease caused by the fungus Fusarium. It shows up as small, water-soaked spots on leaves that later turn brown or reddish with a yellow border. The disease can cause defoliation and weaken the plant’s overall health. In extreme cases, the spots can merge and kill your Sansevieria.

Powdery Mildew is a fungal infection characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves. Infected leaves may become distorted or turn yellow. In severe cases, Powdery Mildew forms white patches engulfing the entire plant, causing it to become mushy and eventually die. This disease thrives in stagnant, moist environments with limited direct sunlight.

Southern Blight. This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the stem near ground level, causing it to collapse and become soft. Lower leaves or water-soaked lesions (spots) on lower stems are the first symptoms of Southern Blight. As the disease progresses, you might notice a white fluffy mold growing around the base of the plant or even tiny black structures that produce spores. Infected plants typically yellow and wilt within days of infection, especially in humid, warm (80 to 95°F) weather.

Red Leaf Spot usually starts as tiny, circular, or irregularly shaped spots. They typically have a reddish-brown coloration, which gives the disease its name. As the infection progresses, the spots may enlarge and merge together, forming larger irregular lesions on the leaves. In severe cases, the lesions may become necrotic, causing tissue death and browning of the affected areas.

Rust. Rust Plant Disease is caused by fungal pathogens and thrives in warm and humid conditions. It appears as reddish-brown or orange-colored lesions on the leaves of a plant. These lesions often have a raised, powdery texture resembling rust. Infected areas may expand and merge, leading to distorted or withered foliage. Infected plants may also show signs of stunted growth, premature leaf drop, and reduced vigor.

Anthracnose. It is caused by the Colletotrichum fungus. It usually starts as small, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which gradually enlarge and develop a dark brown or black color. Infected leaves may become distorted or develop sunken areas.

While these fungal diseases can severely damage the Mother-in-law’s tongue, proper identification and timely intervention can help prevent plant death. Consulting with a local plant expert or professional gardener can provide further guidance and assistance in managing these fungal diseases effectively.

Symptoms

Here are some symptoms to look out for if you suspect a fungal infection on your plant:

• Leaf Spots: Fungal infections often manifest as dark, water-soaked spots. They may vary in size and color, ranging from white to black. As the infection progresses, the spots may increase in size and merge together.

• Yellowing Leaves: Infected leaves may change color to yellow or develop yellow streaks. The yellowing is typically localized around the areas of fungal activity or leaf spots.

• Wilting and Drooping: Fungal infections can cause the affected leaves to wilt, droop, or become floppy. This is often a result of the damage caused by the fungus interfering with the plant’s ability to transport water and nutrients.

• Stunted Growth: Fungal infections can hinder the plant’s growth and development. If your plant is infected, you may notice reduced growth or smaller new leaves compared to healthy plants.

• Moldy or Fuzzy Growth: In some cases, certain fungal infections may produce visible fungal growth on the affected areas of the Snake Plant. This can appear as fuzzy patches, powdery substances, or a moldy texture.

If you notice any symptoms of these diseases, it is recommended to take appropriate measures, such as removing infected leaves, improving cultural conditions (such as proper drainage and avoiding overwatering), and utilizing targeted fungicides if necessary.

Treatment

It’s important to identify any fungal infection early and take appropriate action to prevent it from spreading throughout your plants. If left untreated, the fungal disease can quickly kill your Sansevieria.

Keep it in well-ventilated areas and avoid overwatering them as this will increase the risk of fungal infection. If you do notice any signs of disease, remove affected parts immediately and treat them with an appropriate fungicide before they spread too far.

1. Inspect your plant closely for any signs of decay or wilting at the base of it.

• Check the affected leaves for any signs of insects or mites, as they can also cause similar symptoms.
• Inspect the soil and make sure it’s not too wet or too dry as excess moisture or drought stress can cause leaf issues in the Mother-in-law’s tongue.
• Check if there are any unusual odors that could indicate the presence of a fungal infection on your plant.
• Take a closer look at the spots themselves – do they appear slimy or powdery? This will help determine whether it is caused by bacteria/fungus/mold.

2. Quarantine and monitor. If you have other plants nearby, it is advisable to quarantine the infected plant to prevent the spread of disease to other plants. Regularly monitor neighboring plants for any signs of fungal infections to catch and address the problem early.

3. Remove any infected parts of your Sansevieria, including roots and soil, and discard them in sealed bags to prevent contamination of other plants. Remember that if a significant portion of the plant has been affected by disease, it may be difficult to save it. In such cases, it’s advisable to remove the infected parts or consider taking cuttings from healthy sections of the plant instead. Clean the surrounding soil and plant containers to remove any fungal spores. Be sure to disinfect your tools afterward to prevent the spreading of the disease.

4. Treat the remaining portion of the plant with appropriate fungicides. If you suspect that your plant has a fungal infection, use an appropriate fungicide to treat it. There are several different types of fungicides available at garden centers or online, so be sure to choose one that’s appropriate for use on houseplants.

5. To prevent fungal infections, keep your Snake Plant in well-ventilated areas and avoid overwatering them as this will increase the risk of fungal infection. If you do notice any signs of disease, remove affected parts immediately and treat them with an appropriate fungicide before they spread too far.

4. White cottony patches on the leaves

Cause

If you notice white cottony patches on the leaves of your Mother-in-law’s tongue, it could be a sign of mealybug infestation. They look like tiny bits of waxy or fuzzy white cotton stuck on stems and leaves.

Mealybugs are common plant pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing discoloration, stunted growth, and even death. They also excrete a sugary substance called honeydew while feeding, which encourages the growth of sooty mold that further weakens the plant.

These pests are sneaky, and it may take a while for their presence to be noticeable. Mealybugs appear as tiny white or yellow specks on the leaves before developing into white, cottony masses. They are small and often found on the underside of leaves, along the stem, and in the leaf axils.

A severe infestation of mealybugs can ultimately lead to the death of the whole plant if left unaddressed. Moreover, these pests can quickly spread to other plants in the area, making it imperative to address any signs of infestation as soon as possible.

Symptoms

Mealybugs can be a significant threat to the health of your Snake. It is important to be aware of the signs of mealybug infestation and take preventative measures to ensure your plant has a healthy and thriving life.

Here are some signs that your Snake Plant might be dying due to mealybugs:

• White cottony patches: One of the most obvious signs of a mealybug infestation is the presence of white, cotton patches on the leaves of the plant. These spots can appear on any part of the plant but typically show up on new growth like leaves emerging from the soil.

• Stunted growth: Mealybugs feed by sucking out sap from a plant. This can result in stunted growth over time because there won’t be enough nutrients going toward new growth.

• Leaf discoloration: Mealybugs disrupt the flow of fluids within the plant, leading to yellowing or browning of leaves. The leaves may also become distorted, twisted, or fall off entirely.

• Sticky residue: If you notice a sticky residue on the leaves or surrounding surfaces of the plant, it may be a sign of honeydew secretion. This secretion is produced by mealybugs as they feed on the plant’s sap and can attract other pests and fungi.

• Wilting and drooping leaves: As mealybugs continue to feed on your Mother-in-law’s tongue, it will become weaker which will eventually lead to wilting and drooping of the leaves. If this happens, it means that your plant is close to dying.

Treatment

It is important to note that a slight infestation may not be harmful to a healthy plant, but if left untreated, the leaves may start to yellow, curl, and eventually drop. A heavy infestation of mealybugs can weaken or even kill your plant if not treated in time. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and treat mealybugs before they cause the plant to die or make significant damage to the plant’s health.

1. Isolate from other plants. If your Snake has a mealybug infestation, you should immediately isolate it from other plants to prevent the pests from spreading.

2. Remove pests. Remove them by hand or use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to spot-treat the infested areas on the plant. Repeat this process every few days or until there are no longer any visible mealybugs or their eggs.

3. Use a natural pesticide such as neem oil, which is safe for humans and pets. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap to kill the mealybugs. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.

5. Spider-like webs between the leaves

Cause

The presence of spider-like webs between the leaves could indicate an infestation of spider mites. They are tiny pests that feed on the plant’s sap and cause damage to its leaves.

Spider mites are difficult to detect with the naked eye as they are very small, but their presence can be observed through the web-like substance that they produce. They are usually red or brown and look like tiny specks moving on the webs or on the undersides of the leaves.

They reproduce rapidly, and a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and lead to leaf discoloration and eventual leaf loss.

If left unchecked, the spider mites will continue to feed on your plant and eventually cause discoloration, stunted growth, and even death.

Symptoms

When the Snake is severely infested with spider mites and left untreated, it can exhibit several symptoms that indicate it is dying. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Webbing: Spider mites produce fine webs as they move around and feed on the plant. These webs may be visible between the leaves, especially in severe infestations. The presence of webbing is a clear indicator of spider mites.

• Leaf drop: When a plant is heavily infested with spider mites and its health declines, it may start drooping its leaves. The leaves may wilt, turn brown, and eventually fall off the plant.

• Tiny dots on leaves: Spider mites themselves are difficult to see with the naked eye, but you may notice small dots on the leaves. These dots are actually their eggs and are a sign that an infestation is present.

• Yellowing, browning, and drying leaves: These dangerous pests pierce the plant’s cells and feed on the sap, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow. As the spider mites continue to feed on the plant, the leaves may start to brown and become dry and crispy. The browning can begin at the leaf edges and spread inward.

• Stunted growth: Spider mite infestations can weaken the plant and disrupt its growth. If you notice that your Mother-in-law’s tongue is not producing new leaves or that the existing leaves are smaller than usual, it may be a sign that the mites are affecting its growth.

Treatment

It’s important to address a spider mite infestation promptly to prevent further damage and potentially save your Dracaena trifasciata. Follow these steps to control the infestation and provide the plant with optimal care to promote its recovery:

1. Isolate the infected plant: Move the affected plant away from other plants to avoid spreading the pests.

2. Remove webs and affected leaves: Use a gentle stream of water or a soft cloth to remove the webs and mites from the plant. Prune and dispose of heavily infested leaves.

3. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil: These organic treatments can be effective in controlling spider mites. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply them to the affected plant parts.

4. Improve environmental conditions: Spider mites thrive in warm and dry environments, so increasing humidity around your plants by misting or using a humidifier will help create less favorable conditions for them.

5. Monitor and repeat treatments: Spider mite infestations can be persistent, so monitor your plant regularly and repeat the treatments as necessary to eliminate all the mites.

It’s also essential to ensure that your plant receives proper care, as healthy plants are more resistant to pest infestations. Provide adequate light, water the plant appropriately, and avoid over-fertilizing, as stressed plants are more susceptible to pests.

6. Leaves are discolored, wrinkled, soft, and mushy

Cause

Wrinkled, droopy, soft, and mushy Sansevieria leaves are generally a sign of overwatering. When the soil is consistently wet and the Snake plant’s roots cannot absorb oxygen properly due to excessive moisture content, the leaves will start showing these signs.

However, if the plant has been exposed to prolonged cold temperatures, this can also cause similar symptoms. Mother-in-law’s tongue, native to tropical Africa, thrives in warmer temperatures. While they can withstand low temperatures of around 50-55°F (10-12°C), they are not considered cold-hardy plants.

Exposing Sansevieria to the cold, such as leaving them outdoors or on a balcony during winter, significantly increases the risk of cold damage. Since they dislike even a slight amount of frost, doing so could cause your plant’s demise. The leaves will collapse and swiftly become blue-black.

Symptoms

When the Mother-in-law’s tongue experiences freezing temperatures, it can exhibit several visible signs:

• Discolored and darkened leaves: Frozen leaves often show discoloration, typically turning dark brown or black. The affected areas may appear waterlogged and have a mushy texture.

• Wilted and drooping leaves: Cold-damaged plant leaves may become limp, wilted, and droopy. They lose their characteristic upright and firm appearance.

• Soft and mushy leaves: Cold temperatures can damage plant cells and cause leaves to become soft and mushy.

Treatment

When cold damage occurs, it is important to understand that the injury is permanent, and the affected leaves cannot be revived to their normal state. Recovering a frozen Mother-in-law’s tongue can be challenging as freezing temperatures can cause significant damage. However, here are some steps you can take to try to revive your plant from dying:

1. Move the plant indoors immediately to a warmer location. Keep the plant away from any cold drafts or windows.

2. Assess the damage. Carefully examine the plant to determine the extent of the damage. If there are no healthy roots on the plant, you can’t save it. Unfortunately, you will have to throw it away.

3. Remove the damaged leaves. The best course of action is to remove the damaged leaves to improve the plant’s appearance. This will redirect the plant’s energy towards regrowth and prevent the spread of potential diseases. Use sharp, sterilized tools to prune Sansevieria leaves that are heavily damaged.

4. Adjust growing conditions: Provide optimal growing conditions for Sansevieria to aid its recovery. Move the plant to a new location with bright, indirect light and maintain temperatures within the recommended range of 65-90°F (18-32°C). Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations or drafts.

5. Adjust the watering routine to promote root health. Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings, but avoid letting it become completely dry. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to further root rot. Strike a balance to provide adequate moisture without causing waterlogged conditions.

6. Improve air circulation: Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent excess humidity and minimize the risk of fungal infections. Avoid placing the plant in a location with stagnant air or high humidity levels.

7. Add some fertilizer: Feeding your plant with a balanced fertilizer can help stimulate new growth and aid in recovery.

8. Be patient and monitor: Monitor the plant closely for signs of new growth, such as emerging shoots or leaves. It may take several weeks or even months for the plant to recover fully, depending on the severity of the damage.

Remember that prevention is key in protecting your Mother-in-law’s tongue from freezing temperatures. Avoid exposing them to cold drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations, and consider bringing them indoors during cold weather to safeguard them from frost damage.

7. Other signs of a dying snake plant

If your Snake Plant is showing signs of dying, unmentioned above, there could be many reasons. It’s best to make sure that you provide it with proper care in general. By understanding the specific needs of your Sansevieria and implementing preventive measures, you can create an optimal environment that promotes its growth and vitality.

Maintain a consistent watering schedule, avoid overwatering, and provide proper drainage. Keep the plant away from drafts and extreme temperatures. Regularly dust the leaves to help them absorb more light and maximize photosynthesis.

Remember, reviving a dying Snake Plant takes time and patience. Monitor your plant’s progress and make adjustments as necessary. With proper care and attention, your Mother-in-law’s tongue will have the opportunity to recover and thrive once again, adding beauty and greenery to your indoor space.

How to prevent a snake plant from dying?

Taking care of Dracaena trifasciata is relatively easy, and with proper care, it can thrive for many years. Here are some basic steps you can take to prevent it from dying:

Proper watering: Sansevierias are susceptible to root rot, so it’s crucial not to overwater them. Wait until the top layer of soil is dry before watering it again. Be sure to use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the roots.

Adequate lighting: This low-light succulent can tolerate a variety of light conditions, but they thrive in indirect bright light. Place your Dracaena trifasciata near a window where it can receive bright, filtered light for a few hours a day. Don’t put it in direct sunlight. It can burn the leaves.

Moderate temperatures: Snake Plants prefer temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C). They can tolerate lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to cold drafts or frost can damage the plant. Keep it away from cold windows during winter and protect it from extreme temperature fluctuations.

Avoid overfertilizing: Mother-in-law’s tongue is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to fertilizing. Feed it with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength, or use a slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions. Overfertilizing can lead to burnt roots and cause damage to the plant.

Good air circulation: Sansevierias appreciate good airflow around their leaves, as it helps prevent pests and diseases. Avoid overcrowding your plant with other plants and make sure there is sufficient space for air to circulate.

Regular cleaning: Dust can accumulate on Snake Plant leaves, limiting their ability to photosynthesize. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth or sponge periodically to keep them clean and free from dust. This will also help the plant maintain its attractive appearance.

Watch for pests and diseases: While Mother-in-law’s tongues are generally resistant to pests and diseases, they can occasionally be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests, such as webbing, insects, or yellowing leaves. If detected, take appropriate measures to control the issue promptly.

Conclusion

Notice any of these signs? It is time to act fast! Your Sansevieria may still be able to be saved if you correct the problem right away. It can be difficult to tell what is causing your plant’s death, and many factors could contribute to it. Try keeping an eye on your other houseplants to prevent this from happening.

Overall, regular monitoring of your indoor plants’ growth conditions is essential. You should always assess whether they are receiving sufficient sunlight or suffering from too much heat or coldness. This way you’ll be able to keep your plants healthy and thriving for years to come!

FAQs

Susan Green

Author

Susan is a plant lover with over 10 years of experience caring for houseplants. She enjoys watching her plants thrive and sharing her knowledge with others. As the writer for this website, Susan offers simple, practical tips to help readers grow happy and healthy plants.