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How to Save a Dying Devils Ivy Plant

Updated: March 20, 2023

Devil’s Ivy is a popular houseplant, known for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines. It is also an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive in a range of environments. However, even the most robust plants can develop problems, and devil’s ivy is no exception. If your plant is looking sickly, don’t worry; we have some tips on how to revive it.

Signs of a Dying Devil’s Ivy Plant

Before we dive into how to save your devil’s ivy, it’s essential to know the signs of a dying plant. Here are some signs that indicate your devil’s ivy is in trouble:

  • Yellowing or browning leaves
  • Wilting leaves
  • Drooping stems
  • Stunted growth
  • Pest infestations
  • Root rot

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.

Identify the Cause of the Problem

To save your devil’s ivy, you need to identify the cause of the problem. There are numerous reasons why your plant may be struggling, including:

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common causes of problems with devil’s ivy. If you notice yellowing or browning leaves and soft stems, it could be due to overwatering. To remedy this problem, allow the soil to dry out between watering.

Underwatering

On the other hand, if you notice wilting leaves or drooping stems, it could be due to underwatering. Water your plant thoroughly until the water drains from the bottom of the pot.

Lack of Light

Devil’s ivy needs bright but indirect light to thrive. If you notice stunted growth or yellowing leaves, it could be due to a lack of light. Move your plant closer to a window or provide additional artificial light.

Pest Infestations

Devil’s ivy is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you notice any pests, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Root Rot

Root rot is a severe problem that can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, and soil that doesn’t drain well. To save your plant from root rot, remove it from its pot and inspect the roots. Trim away any soft or mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh soil with excellent drainage.

How to Save Your Devil’s Ivy Plant

Once you have identified the cause of the problem, it’s time to take action. Here are some tips on how to save your devil’s ivy plant:

Trim Away Dead or Dying Foliage

If your plant has yellowing or browning leaves, trim them away with clean scissors or pruning shears. This will help redirect the plant’s energy to healthy foliage and encourage new growth.

Adjust the Watering Schedule

Adjust your watering schedule based on the cause of the problem. Allow the soil to dry out between watering if you’ve been overwatering, or water your plant more frequently if it’s been underwatered.

Provide Adequate Light

Devil’s ivy needs bright but indirect light to thrive. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, move it closer to a window or provide additional artificial light.

Treat Pest Infestations

If your plant has a pest infestation, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Repot in Fresh Soil

If your plant has root rot, remove it from its pot and trim away any soft or mushy roots. Repot the plant in fresh soil with excellent drainage.

FAQs

Can I save my devil’s ivy if all the leaves have fallen off?

Yes, you can save your devil’s ivy even if all the leaves have fallen off. Trim away any dead stems and repot the plant in fresh soil with excellent drainage. Water the plant thoroughly and place it in bright but indirect light.

How often should I water my devil’s ivy?

Devil’s ivy likes to dry out between watering. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I grow devil’s ivy in low light?

Devil’s ivy can survive in low light, but it won’t thrive. To encourage growth and prevent yellowing leaves, provide bright but indirect light.

How do I prevent root rot in my devil’s ivy?

To prevent root rot, make sure your plant is in a pot with excellent drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and avoid overwatering.

Can I propagate my devil’s ivy to create a new plant?

Yes, devil’s ivy is easy to propagate by rooting stem cuttings in water or soil. Simply cut a stem from the parent plant and place it in water or soil until roots form.