Sometimes plants are hard to keep alive, from getting the right amount of sunlight, to watering schedules, and what temperature a plant likes. Some plants may look dead, but in reality, they are still alive. Whereas other times, they look dead, and they are dead. Here is how to tell if your plant is really dead and what you can do about it.

Is your plant dead?

While this may seem like an easy question with an easy answer. It’s not as cut and dry as you may think. Plants don’t have vitals that you can check to make sure they are still breathing. If your plant’s leaves have all fallen off or the leaves have turned brown, it may not mean that your plant is really dead. An easy way to tell if your plant is really dead is to check the stems. The stems should have a green cast on the outside and they should be firm. If the stem is mushy, then most likely your plant has died.

How to bring a plant back to life

If the roots are still alive, but the stems are dead then you can cut the stems away, one/third at a time. You may find as you get closer to the roots then they become firmer, which means they are alive. You will want to leave as much living stem as possible. If you keep cutting and find no living stem, then leave 2 inches of the stem intact.

Once you do that, put the plant where it will get about half the recommended amount of sunlight that you would normally give the plant. You should only water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. In about a month or so if you don’t see any new stems then your plant has died.

If you are having trouble keeping your plants alive in your office, our blooming program is a great way for Evergreen Tropical Interiors to take care of the plants and for you to enjoy them! We make a schedule our blooming program based on your plants need and ensure your plants stay happy and healthy. If you are interested in our services or have any questions, call us at 781-828-7808 or contact us on our website.