What Causes My Poinsettia to Wilt, and Methods for Reviving It?
No plant is more associated with Christmas and the holiday season than the mistletoe plant. Its vibrant red blooms and large green leaves can make any space feel instantly festive. But if your mistletoe plant starts wilting and turning brown, it's not exactly spreading holiday cheer. So if you notice your plant showing signs of distress, we're here to help. Experts gave us the reasons a mistletoe plant might be dying and offered advice for reviving it.
- Donna Letier, co-founder and CEO of Gardenuity
- Andr Connolly, founder of Little Flower Cottage, a gardening and flower blog
Initial Signs Something Is Wrong
If you want to keep your mistletoe plant looking its best throughout the holiday season (and beyond), be sure to pay attention to any changes in its appearance. Here are some common warning signs that something is wrong with your mistletoe plant:
- Leaves are turning yellow or curling at the edges
- Leaves are browning at the edges
- Leaves are wilting or drooping
- Premature leaf dropping
- Leggy plant growth
"These symptoms are usually a sign of stress, often due to an issue with watering, lighting, or temperature conditions," says Andr Connolly, founder of Little Flower Cottage, a gardening and flower blog.
"While these signs can be subtle, it is essential that you catch them early," says Donna Letier, the co-founder and CEO of Gardenuity. "Happy plants tell you when they’re thriving, and these early signs let you know when your plants need a little extra love."
Reasons Your Mistletoe Is Dying
Underwatering
If the leaves of your mistletoe plant are wilting, crispy, and turning brown—and the soil feels dry—those are clear signs that it's in need of more water. To remedy this, Letier says to water your plant thoroughly, and be sure to let the excess water drain out so it isn't sitting in water.
To keep your plant from being parched in the future, make sure to keep an eye on the soil. "Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry," Connolly says.
If just the edges of your plant's leaves are brown, Letier says this often means the air is too dry. "Consider misting the plant or placing a humidifier nearby," she recommends.
Overwatering
If your plant's leaves are yellowing or falling off, the roots might be waterlogged, Letier says. Be sure to empty the saucer or tray under the mistletoe plant, and let the soil dry out slightly before watering it again. Using well-draining soil will also help to keep the plant from getting waterlogged in the future.
Drooping or wilting leaves, while it may look like a sign of underwatering, could also be a sign of root rot due to overwatering, Letier says. So, if this is the case, make sure to check the soil moisture before watering your plant again.
Drafts
Even though mistletoe plants are commonly associated with wintertime, the plants love warmth. "If they’re near a drafty window or door, the leaves can brown or drop," Letier says.
"Maintain stable temperatures between 65–75 degrees Fahrenheit and place the plant near bright, indirect sunlight," Connolly recommends. "Avoid moving it to colder or darker spots."
To keep the plant in a steady temperature range, be sure to keep it away from doors, windows, or heaters. "Mistletoe plants are sensitive to drafts, cold temperatures, and sudden environmental changes," Letier says. "Keep them in a warm, stable spot."
Heat Stress
While warm areas are generally a good spot for mistletoe plants—too much heat can also be a problem. "Too much direct sunlight or heat from a vent can cause leaf burn," Letier says. "Indirect, bright light is best."
Too Little Light
Finding a balanced, stable spot for your mistletoe plant is key. If your plant looks leggy, weak, sparse, or like it's stretching out, it's likely not getting enough light. This means your plant needs to move closer to a bright window or light source. Still, be sure to avoid direct sun, as this can cause leaf burn and heat stress.
If you're looking to revitalize your wilting mistletoe plant, consider exploring tips from gardening experts. Donna Letier, CEO of Gardenuity, suggests checking the soil moisture regularly and ensuring it's not waterlogged, as this can lead to yellowing leaves or root rot. Alternatively, Andr Connolly, founder of Little Flower Cottage, recommends misting the plant in dry environments to combat brown edges on the leaves. According to RealSimple, these simple adjustments can greatly improve the health of your mistletoe plant, ensuring it maintains its vibrant beauty in your home.
