5 Common Houseplants Diseases, Identification and Causes


Houseplants often get attacked by diseases. Usually, the appearance of a disease is a sign of poor growing conditions and or cultural practices. It is important to control any plant disease immediately it is spotted.

Any delay in the control of a houseplant disease may result in spread to the other indoor plants and may then become uncontrollable leading to loss of your plants. The key is to regularly inspect your houseplants for any signs of disease, treat any disease immediately and correct the cultural fault leading to the problem. Below we have outlined 5 common houseplant diseases and how to identify them.

1. Powdery mildew

Powdery Mildew disease

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by spotting or coating of the leaf surface with a white powdery deposit.

This leads to disfigured leaves. In severe cases the disease can spread to the stems and flowers of the plant. The disease is promoted by warm, humid conditions coupled with poor ventilation. Learn more on powdery mildew and how to control it.

2. Root-rot disease

Houseplant Disease, Root rot disease

The first sign of root-rot disease is yellowing and wilting of the leaves which is rapidly followed by browning and plant collapse. The disease is caused by a fungi like Pythium, Phytophthora, Fusarium and Rhizoctonia or by bacteria.

The disease is promoted by waterlogging of the soil. Most houseplants will be killed by root-rot disease if the soil remains too wet for too long. Learn more on root-rot disease and how to treat it.

3. Crown and stem rot disease

Houseplant Disease, Crown and stem rot

With crown and stem rot disease, part of the stem or crown turns soft and rotten. Other symptoms are wilting despite regular watering, stunted growth, and leaves turning yellow, red, or brown.

If the diseased are is at the base of the plant, it is called Basal rot. The disease is common in overwet, poorly ventilated plant growing conditions. Learn more on crown and stem rot disease and how to control it.

4. Leaf spot disease

Houseplant Disease, Leaf Spot

Leaf spot disease is characterized by brown, moist spots on the foliage. In a serious attack the spots enlarge and merge, killing the whole leaf.

The disease is caused by various bacteria and fungi. It is more prevalent in warm, humid conditions coupled with poor air circulation. Learn more on leaf spot disease and how to treat it.

5. Botrytis disease

Houseplant Disease, Botrytis Disease

Botrytis disease also called Black Mold is characterized by grey, fluffy, mold which can cover all parts of the houseplant. The soft-leaved plants are highly susceptible to this disease.

The disease can infest the leaves, stems, buds and flowers if the growing conditions are cool, humid and still (no air circulation). Learn more on botrytis disease and how to treat it.

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