Plant questions

fern (likely Boston fern)

How do I overwinter hanging ferns in a bright sunroom?

That sunroom spot should work well if the ferns get bright but not harsh direct sun and the air isn’t too hot or dry. Indoors, water whenever the top of the soil just starts to feel dry, which is often about once a week but depends on your room’s temperature and humidity.

elephant bush

Why is my elephant bush (Portulacaria afra) droopy and losing leaves?

This elephant bush is most likely reacting to a change in light and watering, and it’s probably staying too wet in its current soil. Move it to brighter light, let it dry more between waterings, and consider repotting into a fast‑draining succulent mix.

What are the best basic tips for a beginner plant owner?

Start by choosing easy plants, matching them to your light, and learning when to water from the soil—not the calendar. Keep things simple: good light, proper watering, and a pot with drainage will prevent most beginner problems.

aquarium plants

Why do my aquarium plants always look unhealthy?

The plants are in plain gravel with weak-looking light, so they’re probably starving for nutrients and possibly not getting enough suitable light. Start by improving the light and adding aquarium plant fertilizer (liquid and/or root tabs) to feed them.

Monstera adansonii (Swiss cheese vine)

Why are the leaves of my Monstera adansonii browning and getting crispy?

Those brown, crispy edges and patches are most likely from leaf burn and general stress, usually a mix of too much direct sun and uneven watering. Move it to bright shade, water more evenly, trim the worst leaves, and it should grow healthier new foliage.

caladium

Why are my caladium leaves drooping and falling over?

Those soft, droopy leaves usually mean the caladium is stressed from watering issues and low light, and it may also be entering its natural rest period. Check the soil and roots, adjust watering, and either give it more light or let it go into dormancy if the tubers are healthy.

Monstera adansonii

How do I care for my Monstera adansonii (Swiss cheese plant) with holey leaves?

This is a Monstera adansonii, and the holes are normal for this plant, not damage. Give it bright, indirect light, water when the top soil dries, and provide a loose, well‑draining mix so it keeps making healthy, holey leaves instead of yellow, torn ones.

pothos

What is happening to my pothos plant leaves?

This pothos looks generally healthy—those lighter green areas are normal variegation, not disease. Focus on steady care: bright indirect light, watering when the top soil dries, and good drainage.

Is it normal for houseplants to move and change direction overnight?

Yes, many plants move their stems and leaves toward light or with day–night cycles. What you’re seeing is normal plant behavior, not your imagination.