If you're reading this, chances are you're struggling to keep your corn plant alive. Don't worry, it's not uncommon! Corn plants can be finicky, but with the right care and attention, you can revive your plant and enjoy its beautiful foliage and vibrant colors. In this article, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to revive a corn plant, covering everything from identifying the problem to providing the right environment and care.
Table of Contents
Identifying the Problem
The first step in reviving your corn plant is to identify the problem. Take a closer look at your plant and observe its condition. Check for signs of overwatering, underwatering, pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. Some common signs of a struggling corn plant include:
- Yellowing or browning leaves
- Wilted or droopy stems
- Black or white spots on the leaves
- A general lack of growth or vigor
Once you've identified the problem, you can start taking steps to address it.
Adjusting Watering Habits
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of death in corn plants. If you suspect you've been watering your plant too much, it's time to adjust your watering habits. Here are some tips:
Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. If it's already moist, wait a day or two before watering again.
Water your corn plant in the morning, so the pot has a chance to dry out slightly before nightfall. This will help prevent root rot.
Avoid getting water on the leaves or crown of the plant, as this can cause fungal diseases. Instead, water at the base of the plant, allowing the soil to absorb the water.
Providing the Right Environment
Corn plants prefer bright, indirect light, but not direct sunlight. If your plant is sitting in a spot that gets direct sunlight, consider moving it to a spot with filtered or dappled light.
Corn plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C), so avoid placing your plant near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows.
Humidity is also important for corn plants. You can increase the humidity around your plant by placing it on a tray filled with water and pebbles or using a humidifier.
Fertilizing Your Corn Plant
Fertilizing your corn plant can help provide it with the nutrients it needs to thrive. Here are some tips:
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) and follow the instructions on the label.
Fertilize your corn plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Avoid fertilizing your plant during the dormant season (fall and winter), as this can cause new growth that may not be sustainable.
Pruning and Grooming
Pruning and grooming your corn plant can help promote healthy growth and encourage new leaves to grow. Here are some tips:
Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease.
Cut back long stems to encourage branching and promote a fuller plant.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent spreading disease from one part of the plant to another.
Pest Control
Pests can be a major problem for corn plants. Here are some common pests to look out for:
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Aphids
- Scale
If you suspect your plant has pests, treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product's instructions.
Disease Prevention
Fungal diseases are common in corn plants, especially if the plant is overwatered. Here are some tips to prevent disease:
Water your plant at the base, avoiding the leaves and crown.
Improve air circulation around your plant by providing space between plants and using fans.
Remove any infected leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease.
Repotting Your Corn Plant
If your corn plant has outgrown its pot or is showing signs of nutrient deficiency, it may be time to repot. Here are some tips:
Choose a pot that is only one to two sizes larger than the current one to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogged soil.
Handle the roots gently to avoid damaging them, and trim away any circling roots.
Water your plant well after repotting to settle the soil and provide enough moisture.
Conclusion
Reviving a corn plant takes time, patience, and attention to detail. By identifying the problem, adjusting watering habits, providing the right environment, fertilizing, pruning, and controlling pests and diseases, you can help your corn plant thrive. Remember to monitor your plant's progress and make adjustments as needed. With the right care, your corn plant can continue to provide beauty and freshness to your home for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs of a dying corn plant?
A dying corn plant can exhibit a range of symptoms, including yellowing or browning leaves, droopy stems, and a general decline in growth. You may also notice that the plant is not producing new leaves or that the existing ones are becoming brittle and fragile. In severe cases, the plant may be infested with pests or diseases, which can further exacerbate its decline.
Why is my corn plant dying?
There are many reasons why a corn plant may be dying, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, and exposure to extreme temperatures or light. It's essential to identify the underlying cause of the problem to take the necessary steps to revive the plant.
Can I revive a corn plant that's been neglected for a long time?
While it may be more challenging to revive a corn plant that's been neglected for an extended period, it's not impossible. Start by pruning back the dead or damaged leaves and stems, and then provide the plant with optimal growing conditions, including bright indirect light, moderate watering, and balanced fertilization.
How often should I water my corn plant?
Corn plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to avoid getting the soil too wet. Water your corn plant when it needs it, rather than on a fixed schedule.
What type of fertilizer is best for corn plants?
Corn plants benefit from balanced fertilizers that contain equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). You can use a general-purpose fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for indoor plants. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can damage the plant's roots and lead to nutrient imbalances.
Can I use tap water to water my corn plant?
Tap water can be used to water your corn plant, but it's essential to let it sit for at least 24 hours to allow the chlorine and fluoride to evaporate. These chemicals can be toxic to plants and may cause damage to the roots and leaves.
Why are the leaves of my corn plant turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves on a corn plant can be caused by a range of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, and exposure to extreme temperatures or light. Check the soil moisture, adjust your watering schedule as needed, and ensure the plant is receiving optimal growing conditions.
How can I prevent pests from infesting my corn plant?
To prevent pests from infesting your corn plant, keep the soil and leaves clean, avoid overwatering, and inspect the plant regularly for signs of infestation. You can also use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests and prevent infestations.
What are some common pests that can infest corn plants?
Corn plants can be susceptible to a range of pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems, and may also transmit diseases to the plant.
How can I treat fungal diseases in my corn plant?
Fungal diseases can be treated with fungicides, but it's essential to identify the underlying cause of the problem and take steps to prevent its spread. Improve air circulation, remove infected leaves or stems, and treat the plant with a fungicide specifically formulated for indoor plants.
Can I propagate a corn plant from stem cuttings?
Yes, corn plants can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings, remove lower leaves, and plant them in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and roots should develop within 1-2 weeks.
How long does it take to revive a corn plant?
The time it takes to revive a corn plant depends on the severity of the damage and the underlying cause of the problem. With proper care and attention, a corn plant can recover within a few weeks to a few months.
Can I grow a corn plant outdoors?
Yes, corn plants can be grown outdoors in a shaded location with well-draining soil. However, they may require more maintenance and care, as they can be susceptible to pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions.
What is the ideal temperature for a corn plant?
Corn plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and no lower than 55°F (13°C) at night. Avoid placing the plant near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows.
Can I prune my corn plant to maintain its shape?
Yes, pruning can help maintain the shape and size of your corn plant. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, and cut back the plant to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming leggy.
Why are the stems of my corn plant becoming leggy?
Leggy stems on a corn plant can be caused by a lack of light, overfertilization, or inadequate pruning. Provide the plant with bright indirect light, reduce fertilization, and prune the stems to encourage bushy growth.
Can I repot my corn plant in the spring?
Yes, spring is an excellent time to repot your corn plant. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, and use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogged soil.
How often should I repot my corn plant?
Corn plants typically need to be repotted every 1-2 years, as their roots can become pot-bound. Repotting provides the plant with fresh soil and a larger pot, which can help promote healthy growth.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when caring for a corn plant?
Common mistakes to avoid when caring for a corn plant include overwatering, underwatering, overfertilization, and exposing the plant to extreme temperatures or light. Also, avoid neglecting the plant for extended periods, as this can lead to pest infestations and diseases.
Can I grow a corn plant in a low-light environment?
While corn plants prefer bright indirect light, they can tolerate low-light environments. However, they may not grow as vigorously, and may be more susceptible to pests and diseases.
How can I provide humidity for my corn plant?
To provide humidity for your corn plant, you can place the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles, use a humidifier, or group plants together to create a microclimate.
Can I use a grow light to supplement the natural light for my corn plant?
Yes, a grow light can be used to supplement the natural light for your corn plant. Choose a grow light that is specifically designed for indoor plants, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
How can I monitor the health of my corn plant?
Regularly inspect your corn plant for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture, and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Also, monitor the plant's growth and adjust its care accordingly.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.