Wax plants, also known as hoya plants, are a popular choice for indoor houseplants due to their attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. However, one common problem that wax plant owners may encounter is drooping. If you’re wondering why your wax plant is drooping, keep reading to learn about the possible causes and how to fix them.
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of drooping in wax plants. These plants are sensitive to excessive moisture and can easily develop root rot if they are consistently watered too much or too frequently. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, soggy soil, and a foul odor coming from the soil.
To fix an overwatered wax plant, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. You may also need to repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil if the current soil is too compacted or waterlogged.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, underwatering can also cause a wax plant to droop. When a wax plant doesn’t receive enough water, it may start to wilt and its leaves may become dry and brittle. In severe cases, the leaves may even fall off.
To fix an underwatered wax plant, give it a deep watering and make sure the soil is evenly moist throughout. Monitor the plant closely and adjust your watering schedule as needed to prevent future episodes of underwatering.
Wax plants require bright, indirect light in order to thrive. If your wax plant is not receiving enough light, it may begin to droop and its leaves may turn yellow or brown. This is especially common during the winter months when natural light levels are lower.
To fix a wax plant with insufficient light, move it to a brighter location or supplement its light with artificial grow lights. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves.
Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can also cause a wax plant to droop. These insects feed on the plant’s sap, which can weaken the plant and cause its leaves to curl or droop. You may also notice webbing or white cottony masses on the plant’s leaves or stems.
To fix a pest-infested wax plant, isolate it from other plants and treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully and continue treatment until all signs of infestation have been eliminated.
Wax plants prefer temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and can be sensitive to extreme temperature fluctuations. If your wax plant is drooping and you suspect temperature may be the culprit, check to see if it is located near a drafty window or heating/cooling vent.
To fix a wax plant affected by temperature extremes, move it to a more stable location away from drafts or vents. You may also need to adjust your home’s temperature settings to create a more consistent environment for your plants.
Wax plants prefer to be kept on the drier side, so it’s important not to overwater them. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again, and aim to water approximately once every 7-10 days.
Yes, wax plants are relatively easy to propagate using stem cuttings. Simply cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) section of stem with several leaves and nodes, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder, and place it in moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright indirect light until the cutting has rooted and begins to grow.
Regularly inspect your wax plant for signs of pests, and isolate any affected plants immediately. Keep the plant clean and dust-free, and avoid over-fertilizing as this can attract pests. You may also want to consider using natural pest deterrents such as diatomaceous earth or beneficial insects like ladybugs.