How to Revive a Dead Plant

It is possible to revive a dying plant.

Houseplants and gardens make any home look more inviting by adding a touch of green to the decor. However, not everyone was blessed with a green thumb, and under their care every piece of nearby greenery is soon reduced to a wilted, brown mess. For those who are not quite ready to give up on their plants, there are a few 11th-hour measures that can be taken to bring them back to life.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Plant container
• Potting soil
• Compost
• Water
• Spray bottle

Instructions

Plant Revival

1. Visually inspect the plant for any signs of life. Gently trim off any brown plant material, leaving only what is green. If there is nothing green remaining, leave the main plant stem.

2. Remove the plant from the soil and inspect the roots. Cut away any obviously dead plant material from the root system.

3. Re-pot or replant what remains of the plant. For indoor plants, choose a pot that is 1 to 3 inches larger than the plant root system and a sterile potting mixture. For outdoor plants, dig a hole that is approximately two times larger than the root ball and work a few handfuls of compost into the soil before replanting.

4. Water the plant thoroughly. Add more soil, if necessary, as the water is absorbed into the planting material to ensure the roots are completely covered.

5. Place the plant in a warm, sunny location. Plants need light to thrive and most tend to do well in mild to warm temperatures -- 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Any area that is too cool or too warm could stress the plant and inhibit growth.

6. Fill a spray bottle with cool water and mist the plant once a day. Check the potting soil to make sure it is moist, but not wet. Plants tend to flourish in moist environments; however, too much water can cause root rot, so be careful not to overdo it.

References

• Plant Care: Cold Hardy Tropical Plants -- Effects of Cold Temperatures on Plant Growth
• The Globe and Mail: How to Revive Your Dying Plants