Pilea, commonly known as the Chinese money plant, is a popular houseplant that is loved for its unique look and ease of care. However, despite being a low-maintenance plant, it can still experience problems that may lead to its death.
If you are a Pilea owner, it is important to be aware of the common causes of Pilea problems and how to recognize the symptoms of a dying Pilea.
One of the most common reasons for pilea plant dying is overwatering. Often, plant owners are so worried about under-watering their plants that they provide too much water, resulting in root rot and a dying plant.
Signs of an overwatered Pilea include yellow or brown leaves, drooping stems, and root rot. While saving an overwatered Pilea is difficult, it is possible if you intervene early enough.
If you are experiencing problems with your Pilea, it is important to take action quickly. In this article, we will explore the common causes of Pilea problems, how to recognize the symptoms of a dying Pilea, and what you can do to rescue a dying plant.
We will also provide preventive measures for Pilea care and tips for propagating your Pilea.
Key Takeaways
- Recognize the symptoms of a dying Pilea, such as yellow or brown leaves, drooping stems, and root rot.
- Common causes for Pilea problems include overwatering, under-watering, over-fertilizing, and pest infestations.
- To rescue a dying Pilea, take immediate action by identifying and addressing the underlying problem, such as repotting or adjusting watering habits.
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Recognizing Symptoms of a Dying Pilea
Pilea plants are generally easy to care for, but they can still fall victim to various problems that can cause them to wither and die. Recognizing the symptoms of a dying Pilea is crucial to save the plant before it’s too late. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
1. Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves are one of the most common symptoms of a dying Pilea plant. If the leaves are turning yellow and falling off, it could be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to dry out and fall off.
2. Brown Spots
Brown spots on the leaves are another sign of a dying Pilea plant. These spots can be caused by various factors, including fungal or bacterial infections, insect infestations, or nutrient deficiencies. If the brown spots are spreading rapidly, it’s important to take action immediately to prevent further damage.
3. Curling Leaves
Curling leaves can be a sign of stress in Pilea plants. This stress can be caused by various factors, including overwatering, underwatering, exposure to direct sunlight, or exposure to cold drafts. If the curling leaves are accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to investigate further to determine the underlying cause.
4. Drooping Stems
Drooping stems are another common symptom of a dying Pilea plant. This can be caused by various factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. If the stems are drooping, it’s important to investigate further to determine the underlying cause and take appropriate action.
5. Root Rot
Root rot is a serious condition that can cause a Pilea plant to die quickly. This condition is caused by overwatering, which can lead to the roots becoming waterlogged and rotting. If the roots are brown and mushy, it’s important to take immediate action to save the plant.
6. Disease Signs
Pilea plants can also fall victim to various diseases, including fungal infections, bacterial infections, and viral infections. These diseases can cause a range of symptoms, including yellowing leaves, brown spots, curling leaves, and drooping stems.
If you suspect that your Pilea plant has a disease, it’s important to take action immediately to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pilea Plant Dying – 6 Common Problems
Pilea plants are generally easy to care for, but sometimes they can experience problems. Here are some of the most common causes of Pilea problems:
1. Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatering and underwatering are two of the most common causes of Pilea problems. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. On the other hand, underwatering can lead to the plant becoming dehydrated and dying.
To avoid overwatering, make sure to let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. To avoid underwatering, make sure to water the plant thoroughly when you do water it.
2. Inadequate Lighting
Pilea plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. If they don’t get enough light, they can become leggy and weak. If they get too much direct sunlight, they can get sunburned and develop brown spots.
To avoid inadequate lighting, make sure to place your Pilea plant near a window that gets bright, indirect light.
3. Temperature Stress
Pilea plants prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too hot or too cold, the plant can become stressed and start to wilt.
To avoid temperature stress, make sure to keep your Pilea plant in a room with a consistent temperature.
4. Pest Infestation
Pilea plants can be susceptible to pest infestations, such as spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can cause the plant to decline rapidly.
To avoid pest infestations, make sure to inspect your Pilea plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly.
5. Poor Soil Quality
Pilea plants need well-draining soil to thrive. If the soil is too compacted or doesn’t drain well, the plant can become stressed and start to wilt.
To avoid poor soil quality, make sure to use well-draining soil when planting your Pilea plant.
6. Over-Fertilizing
Over-fertilizing can cause chemical burn and brown spots on Pilea plants. It’s important to use fertilizer sparingly and follow the instructions on the package.
To avoid over-fertilizing, make sure to use fertilizer only as directed and not more often than recommended.
Rescuing a Dying Pilea
Pilea plants can be finicky and require specific care to thrive. If you notice your Pilea plant is dying, don’t give up on it just yet. There are several steps you can take to save your plant and nurse it back to health.
1. Adjusting Watering Schedule
Overwatering is a common cause of Pilea plant death. If you suspect your plant is suffering from overwatering, adjust your watering schedule. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot.
2. Regulating Light Exposure
Pilea plants prefer bright, indirect light. If your plant is receiving too much direct sunlight, it can lead to sunburn and cause the leaves to turn brown. Move your plant to a location with filtered or indirect light. If your home doesn’t have enough natural light, consider using a grow light to supplement.
3. Temperature Control
Pilea plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). If your plant is exposed to extreme temperatures, it can cause damage to the leaves and make the plant more susceptible to pests. Keep your plant away from drafts and maintain a consistent temperature.
4. Pest Control
Insects like spider mites and mealybugs can infest Pilea plants and cause damage to the leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests. Regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation and take action immediately.
5. Repotting and Soil Improvement
If your Pilea plant is root-bound, it may need to be repotted. Use a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and fill it with a well-draining potting mix.
Add perlite to improve drainage and prevent water from sitting in the soil. If your plant is suffering from nutrient deficiencies, consider using a fertilizer specifically designed for Pilea plants.
6. Proper Fertilizing
Pilea plants require regular fertilization to thrive. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause damage to the roots and leaves.
Preventive Measures for Pilea Care
Pilea plants are easy to care for and maintain, but they still require proper attention and TLC to stay healthy and vibrant. Here are some preventive measures you can take to ensure optimal growth and care of your Pilea.
Optimal Growth Conditions
Pilea plants thrive in warm and humid environments. They prefer bright, indirect light, and should be kept away from direct sunlight. A temperature range of 60-75°F is ideal for Pilea plants. They also require well-draining soil and should be planted in a pot with drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
Routine Inspection
Regular inspection of your Pilea plant is essential to detect any potential problems early on. Check the leaves, stems, and soil for any signs of pests, fungus gnats, or diseases. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, and keep an eye out for any new growth or changes in the plant’s appearance.
Regular Pruning
Pruning your Pilea plant regularly promotes healthy growth and helps prevent overcrowding. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems. This will also help prevent the spread of any potential diseases or pests.
Balanced Fertilizing and Watering
Pilea plants require balanced fertilizing and watering to stay healthy. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the winter months.
Water your Pilea plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Humidity and Evaporation
Pilea plants thrive in humid environments, but too much humidity can also lead to problems. Use a humidifier or place a tray of water near the plant to increase humidity levels.
However, be careful not to let the soil become waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. Additionally, Pilea plants have thin leaves, which makes them prone to evaporation. Mist the leaves with water regularly to prevent them from drying out.
Propagation of Pilea
Pilea plants are easy to propagate, making them an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. Propagation is a great way to spread the plant’s beauty to new environments or to replace a stunted growth plant. There are two primary methods of propagation: cutting and root division.
Cutting Method
The cutting method is the most popular way to propagate Pilea plants. To propagate using this method, follow these steps:
- Choose a healthy Pilea plant and select a stem that is at least four inches long and has several leaves.
- Cut the stem using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors.
- Remove the bottom leaves from the stem, leaving only two or three leaves at the top.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the stem in a pot filled with well-draining soil and water it thoroughly.
- Cover the pot with a plastic bag or wrap to create a humid environment.
- Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.
Within a few weeks, new growth should appear on the stem, indicating successful propagation.
Root Division
Root division is another method of propagating Pilea plants. This method is suitable for mature plants that have developed a dense root system. To propagate using this method, follow these steps:
- Remove the Pilea plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil.
- Use a sharp, sterile knife to divide the root ball into two or more sections.
- Each section should have at least one stem and several healthy roots.
- Plant each section in a pot filled with fresh, well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
- Place the pots in a bright, indirect light location.
Root division is a quick and easy way to propagate Pilea plants, and it is an excellent way to refresh a plant that has outgrown its pot.
Propagation is an easy way to spread the beauty of Pilea plants to new environments. Both the cutting and root division methods are effective and straightforward, making them perfect for beginner gardeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you save a dying Pilea?
Saving a dying Pilea requires identifying the problem and taking appropriate action. Some common causes of a dying Pilea include overwatering, underwatering, pests, and inadequate lighting. To save a dying Pilea, first, identify the problem and address it accordingly.
For instance, if the plant is overwatered, reduce the watering frequency and ensure the soil is well-draining. If the plant is underwatered, increase the watering frequency and ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves, and prune the plant to promote new growth.
What does overwatered Pilea look like?
Overwatered Pilea may have yellowing or drooping leaves, and the soil may be waterlogged. The leaves may also be mushy or soft to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
To avoid overwatering, allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering and ensure the pot has proper drainage.
Why are my Pilea leaves dying?
Pilea leaves may die due to several reasons, including underwatering, overwatering, pests, or inadequate lighting. If the leaves are yellow, mushy, or falling off, it may indicate overwatering or root rot.
If the leaves are dry, crispy, or brown, it may indicate underwatering or inadequate lighting. Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can also cause damage to the leaves, leading to their death.
What does Pilea root rot look like?
Pilea root rot may appear as brown or black, mushy roots. The leaves may also yellow or wilt, and the plant may appear stunted or stop growing.
Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil, which leads to the roots’ decay. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil is well-draining, and the pot has proper drainage.
Why is my Chinese money plant dropping leaves?
Chinese money plants may drop leaves due to several reasons, including overwatering, underwatering, pests, or inadequate lighting. If the leaves are yellow or mushy, it may indicate overwatering or root rot.
If the leaves are dry, crispy, or brown, it may indicate underwatering or inadequate lighting. Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can also cause damage to the leaves, leading to their death.
Pilea leaves turning brown
Pilea leaves may turn brown due to several reasons, including underwatering, overwatering, pests, or inadequate lighting. Brown spots or edges may indicate underwatering or inadequate lighting, while brown or black mushy spots may indicate overwatering or root rot.
Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can also cause damage to the leaves, leading to their browning.

Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below