Peperomia is a tropical plant with succulent leaves. It is a preferred houseplant for non-flowering houseplant enthusiasts and is known for its high tolerance to harsh conditions. However, once in a while you may find that your peperomia is starting to wilt. So, why is your peperomia wilting?
Why is my peperomia starting to wilt?
While peperomia usually requires little maintenance, sometimes it may start to wilt. It happens due to an imbalance of natural factors. If left untreated, it may lead to severe problems for your plant and may even lead to its death. Some of the reasons for a wilting peperomia plant are –
- Over Watering
- Under Watering
- Sunburn
- Pest Infestation
Over Watering
Overwatering your peperomia plant can be a fatal mistake. It makes the plant turn mushy and weak. It also makes the plant susceptible to fungal infections such as root rot and crown rot. So, it is very important to provide the right amount of water for your peperomia plant.
Solution
Always use a watering schedule to keep the watering in check. Plant your peperomia in a pot with proper drainage holes to avoid stagnation. It is important to keep checking for signs of fungal infections and, if spotted, take immediate steps to treat the infection.
Under Watering
Another reason for a wilting peperomia may be underwatering. It causes the plant to turn brown and weak. It may also make the plant susceptible to insect and pest attacks. If the plant is left without water for a prolonged period, it may also lead to its death.
Solution
It is important to water the plant thoroughly once a week. Avoid using soil that consists of too much gravel as it reduces the water holding capacity and makes the plant prone to lack of water. Increase the frequency of watering if signs of wilting are spotted.
Improper Sunlight
If your peperomia plant is having yellow leaves, drooping and wilting, it may be due to a lack of sunlight. Sunlight is essential in green plants to produce food through photosynthesis. So, if your plant is kept in a dark place for too long, it will starve and start to wilt.
Solution
Due to its tropical origin, peperomia requires long hours of bright, indirect light. However, ensure that you place it in partial shade as direct sunlight may cause sunburns and severely damage the plant. In the case of indoor plants, place it near a south-facing window or use artificial grow lights to keep the plant healthy.
Pest Infestation
Pests may cause serious problems for your peperomia plant. Pests like mealybugs and aphids suck on the sap of the plant for food. It weakens the plant and leads to wilting. If left untreated, these pests can cause irreversible and extensive damage to your peperomia.
Solution
Always keep a check on the pest infestations by regularly inspecting the plant. If an infestation is spotted, immediately isolate the plant to contain the spread. Regularly spray the affected area with an insecticide and re-pot the plant with fresh sterile soil to reduce chances of reinfection.
Thus, these are the reasons why your peperomia plant may be wilting and the steps to revive it back to health.