Why Is My Fortune Plant Falling Over

Fortune plants are known for their resilience and easy-to-care-for nature. They are a popular choice for indoor plants, and their unique braided stem adds to their appeal. However, sometimes, even the most well-cared-for fortune plant can start to fall over. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your fortune plant may be falling over and how to fix it.

Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons for a fortune plant falling over is a lack of light. Fortune plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough light, it will start to stretch towards the nearest source of light, causing it to become top-heavy and eventually fall over.

To fix this issue, you should move your fortune plant to a brighter location. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves. Instead, place it near a window that receives bright, indirect light throughout the day.

Overwatering

Overwatering can also cause a fortune plant to fall over. When a plant receives too much water, its roots become waterlogged and cannot absorb oxygen properly. This causes the roots to rot, which weakens the plant’s overall structure.

To fix this issue, you should allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Stick your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle – if the soil feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water your fortune plant. Additionally, make sure that your fortune plant is in a well-draining pot and that there are drainage holes at the bottom.

Underwatering

Underwatering is another common reason for a fortune plant falling over. When a plant doesn’t receive enough water, its leaves will start to droop and eventually fall off. This can cause the plant to become weak and unstable.

To fix this issue, you should water your fortune plant more frequently. Stick your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle – if the soil feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water your fortune plant. Additionally, make sure that your fortune plant is in a well-draining pot and that there are drainage holes at the bottom.

Pests

Pests, such as spider mites and mealybugs, can also cause a fortune plant to fall over. These pests feed on the plant’s leaves and stem, weakening its overall structure.

To fix this issue, you should inspect your fortune plant regularly for signs of pests. If you notice any pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product carefully and avoid using too much as it can damage the plant.

Root Bound

Fortune plants can become root-bound if they have outgrown their pot. When this happens, the roots will start to circle around the bottom of the pot, causing the plant to become unstable and fall over.

To fix this issue, you should repot your fortune plant into a larger pot. Make sure to choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one as a pot that is too large can cause the soil to retain too much moisture, leading to root rot.

FAQ

How often should I water my fortune plant?

You should water your fortune plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Stick your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle – if it feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water your fortune plant.

Can I place my fortune plant in direct sunlight?

No, you should avoid placing your fortune plant in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Instead, place it near a window that receives bright, indirect light throughout the day.

How do I repot my fortune plant?

To repot your fortune plant, gently remove it from its current pot and loosen the roots. Place it in a slightly larger pot with fresh potting soil and water thoroughly. Make sure to choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one as a pot that is too large can cause the soil to retain too much moisture, leading to root rot.