First, understand that I am a creature of light. My large, glossy leaves are solar panels designed to capture dappled sunlight from the forest canopy. If I am dying, insufficient light is a prime suspect. I need bright, indirect light for most of the day. A north or east-facing window is often ideal; a south or west window might be too harsh and scorch my leaves. If you move me, do it gradually. A sudden shift from a dark corner to a blazing sunbeam is a shock to my system. Rotate my pot a quarter turn weekly so all my leaves can bask equally and I can grow straight, not lopsided.
My demise is most commonly linked to water—both too much and too little. My roots are highly sensitive; they crave moisture but despise sogginess. Overwatering suffocates me, leading to root rot, which prevents me from absorbing water and nutrients, ironically making me look underwatered. You must check my soil before giving me a drink. Insert your finger two inches deep. If it feels dry, it is time for a thorough, deep watering until it runs freely from my pot's drainage holes. If it is still damp, wait. Ensure my pot has excellent drainage and never let me sit in a saucer of standing water.
The soil I live in is my entire world. It must be well-aerating and fast-draining. A dense, moisture-retentive mix is a death sentence for my roots. If my soil is poor, consider repotting me into a premium, well-draining potting mix, perhaps one amended with perlite or orchid bark. Furthermore, I am a heavy feeder during my growing season (spring and summer). A lack of nutrients can cause my leaves to yellow and my growth to stunt. Feed me with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every month during this period. In fall and winter, I am resting; please let me fast.
Stress from incorrect light or water makes me vulnerable to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. These tiny invaders suck the life from my leaves, leaving them speckled, sticky, or wilted. Inspect me regularly, especially underneath my leaves. If you find pests, treat me immediately with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, I am a tropical plant. Dry, stagnant air from heating or air conditioning vents causes me great stress, often resulting in brown, crispy leaf edges. Boosting humidity around me with a pebble tray or a humidifier makes me feel much more at home.
If I have dead or dying leaves, it is okay to remove them. Use clean, sharp shears to prune any completely brown or damaged foliage. This allows me to redirect my precious energy to producing new, healthy growth. However, please be patient. I do not recover from severe stress overnight. Once you have corrected my conditions, give me time. Do not move me constantly or overwater me in a panic. Consistency is key. With stable, correct care, I will signal my recovery by putting out a new, bright green bud—a sign of my gratitude.
