What’s the easiest way to identify a dying houseplant?

Introduction

The fastest way to tell if a houseplant is in trouble is to check three things in order: roots, water, and light. A quick triage using these signals will tell you if the plant is truly dying or just stressed—and what to fix first.

1) Root check (the truth detector)

Gently slide the plant from its pot. Healthy roots are firm and light-colored. Mushy, brown, and foul-smelling roots indicate root rot; papery, brittle roots signal chronic underwatering. If roots circle tightly, it is rootbound.

2) Moisture reality check (not just the topsoil)

Topsoil can mislead. Probe deeper with a finger, chopstick, or moisture meter. Confirm if the root zone is wet, evenly moist, or truly dry before deciding to water.

3) Light mismatch shows on leaves

Too little light causes leggy growth, small new leaves, and slow recovery; too much sun scorches tips/patches and washes out color. Track distance and hours from the nearest window to judge exposure.

4) Scan for pests and residues

Look under leaves and along stems for webbing (spider mites), cottony clumps (mealybugs), sticky residue (honeydew), or fine scabs (scale). A yellow sticky trap near the pot helps detect fungus gnats.

5) Quick decision tree

• Roots rotten: unpot, prune rot, repot in fresh airy mix, reduce watering.
• Roots bone-dry: deep soak & drain, adjust schedule and mix.
• Light too low: move closer to brightest window or add a grow light.
• Pests present: isolate, wipe, and treat; repeat weekly until clear.