Why Your Houseplant Stopped Growing and How to Fix It

Houseplants can bring life and beauty to any room. They can purify the air, boost your mood, and even improve your productivity. However, it can be discouraging when your once-vibrant plant suddenly stops growing. The good news is that there are several reasons why this might happen, and many of them are easy to fix.

1. Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons why a houseplant stops growing is because it's not getting enough light. Plants need light to photosynthesize and produce energy. If your plant is in a spot that doesn't receive enough natural light, it won't be able to grow properly.

To fix this issue, try moving your plant to a brighter location in your home. South-facing windows generally have the most sunlight, so this is an ideal spot if you have one available. You can also try using artificial lights, such as grow lights, to supplement the natural light your plant is getting.

A houseplant growing in bright sunlight

2. Overwatering or Underwatering

Another common reason why a houseplant might stop growing is due to improper watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering will cause the plant to dry out and die. It's important to strike a balance and water your plant when the soil is slightly dry to the touch.

Make sure you're not using a pot without drainage holes, as this can cause water to accumulate and lead to root rot. If you suspect that your plant has root rot, remove it from the soil and trim away any damaged roots before repotting it in fresh soil.

An overwatered houseplant with yellow leaves

3. Fertilizer Issues

If your plant isn't growing, it could be due to issues with fertilizer. While fertilizing your plant can help it grow, too much or too little can have the opposite effect. Make sure you're using the right type of fertilizer for your plant and following the instructions on the packaging carefully.

Also, remember to fertilize your plant during its active growth period. If you're not sure when this is, do some research on your specific plant or consult with a garden center professional.

A bag of plant fertilizer

4. Temperature and Humidity

Plants thrive in environments that are within their preferred temperature and humidity range. If your home is too cold or too hot, or if the air is too dry or too humid, your plant may stop growing or even die.

Try to keep your plant in an area where the temperature and humidity levels are consistent. Avoid placing it near drafty windows or vents, which can cause fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

A houseplant with a humidity meter nearby

5. Pests and Diseases

If none of the above solutions work, it's possible that your plant is being affected by pests or diseases. Common houseplant pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can suck the sap from your plant and cause stunted growth.

To prevent and treat pest infestations, regularly inspect your plant for signs of damage or discoloration. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of pests.

A close-up of a houseplant with spider mites

Lack of growth in houseplants can be frustrating, but it's often fixable with proper care and attention. By addressing issues with light, water, fertilizer, temperature and humidity, and pest control, you can get your houseplant back on track and thriving once again.