Why Office Plants Die and How To Save Them. It’s no secret that plants need TLC. Some, more so than others. Although office plants tend to be chosen for their low-maintenance status, that’s not to say that you won’t arrive at the office one day to find one of them wilting more than they should be. Office plants die for a variety of reasons, but two are the most common. When you understand these two causes, it’s possible to take decisive action and prevent it from happening again. This guide covers what you need to do, while also pointing you in the right direction for where you can buy replacements if need be.
The Wrong Watering Balance
The most common reason that office plants die is a lack of proper watering. Watering them isn’t enough: they key lies in doing so with the right balance based on the needs of the plant. Plants need to be consistently watered to set specifications, factoring in the conditions around them too. Overwatering has a tendency to suffocate the roots, which encourages them to rot. The first sign of this is browning leaves, with wilting following shortly after. Remember to check for excess water and to make sure the pot is well drained. Under-watered plants go dry very fast, with the same unfortunate end result if not tended to immediately.
Incorrect Lighting Conditions
The second most common reason why office plants “kick the bucket” has to do with a lack of sufficient lighting. All plants need a certain amount of sunlight to thrive, but too much or too little can have a harmful effect and dictate whether they thrive in the space or not. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while a lack of sunlight creates a spindly (weak) plant. Always factor in where the sun is most prevalent across the entire day, selecting the specific spots you leave the plants based on this. Consider that they are in the space throughout an entire 24 hours, rather than simply focusing on the period where the office is open during the week.
How to Save Your Office Plants
Saving office plants from either of these common causes doesn’t involve taking complicated action. The wrong watering balance can be correct with sufficient research, asking for advice and a bit of trial and error. Try not to move the plants around too much during this phase. Inconsistent lighting conditions should also be corrected based on the actual needs of the plants. Slight adjustments can make a world of difference. Maintaining a plant is not a “do something now, hope for the best” scenario. It requires checking up on the plants consistently, as well as ensuring there is a person dedicated to keep them alive and well.
Adding to the Collection
If one of your office plants is beyond saving, there’s no need to fret. ExecuFlora has a wide range of replacement options that can be delivered to your doorstep in no time at all. Whether in an office or a home setting, owning plants comes with the risk that they might end up dying at some point. You’re tending to a living, “breathing” organism at the end of the day. If you need any assistance in finding new office plants, we’ve got you covered. We’re also happy to offer commiserations in case your favourite one ends its lifespan. Luckily, there are plenty of prospects for a new plant to come in on the horizon.