When things go wrong with plants there are steps to get to the root of the problem. Systematic sleuthing considers all of the possibilities when identifying the source of the cause behind a sick plant.
- Begin by examining the plant from top to bottom. Check the leaves, twigs and roots. Look for bugs and what they left behind. Oozing, slime and fruiting fungal structures indicate the plant is being harmed by insects.
- The obvious symptoms may be the result of damage on a different part of the plant, such as harm to the base of the plant showing up as wilting at the top.
- Look at the injury pattern. Uniform patterns are usually environmental causes including heat, drought, cold, weed-eater injury or herbicide damage. Random patterns are usually caused by insects or diseases.
- The plant’s location is also important. Consider whether the plant is getting too much shade or sun. A plant will turn a pale green and wilt if it is planted too deep.
- Soil is a big factor in determining a plant’s health. Compacted, hard soil won’t let air and water get to the roots. Soils that are too wet or too dry are problems for most plants. Form a ball with some of the soil and bounce the soil ball gently in your hand. Evenly moist soil will hold together when you bounce it. Dry soil will crumble apart. Wet soil will drip with water.
- Think back to recent weather events. Cold snaps, hail, hard thunderstorm winds, record hot days all play a part in plant health.
Systematic, careful observation is the key to plant diagnosis. While the numerous variables can even leave botanists scratching their heads, understanding what plants thrive in what conditions and what vulnerabilities they may have will increase your chances of restoring a sick plant to health.
