Leaf Diagnosis Tree
Six common leaf symptoms, a handful of questions, and a short list of what to check next. No photo upload, no account.
Pick the symptom that fits best and answer the follow-up questions. The tree narrows toward the most likely cause, a practical fix and the guides that go deeper.
- Start
How it works
The tree follows the order a grower would use at the potting bench: what changed, where on the plant, and what the soil and leaf surface say. Yellowing lower leaves point toward watering or nutrients; crisp tips with wet soil point toward dry air; sticky residue points toward insects.
Each result names a likely cause, lists a few checks you can do without buying anything, and links to the guide that covers that problem in detail. The tree is a triage tool for common houseplant problems, not a laboratory diagnosis. Two problems can overlap: a plant weakened by soggy soil is also easier for pests to colonise.
- Look underneath the leaves. Many pests live on the underside and along the veins.
- Feel the mix, not the calendar. Watering problems are the most common cause of leaf symptoms indoors.
- Check recent changes. A move, a cold night or a new position can explain a sudden change.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a plant disease test?
No. It is a decision tree that helps you narrow down common houseplant problems using visible symptoms and a few checks. A laboratory test would be needed to confirm a pathogen.
Why does the tree ask about soil moisture?
Overwatering and poor drainage are behind many yellow, drooping or soft brown leaves. Checking the mix first prevents treating a watering problem as a disease.
What if none of the answers fit?
Start with the closest symptom, then read the sick plant rescue guide linked below. Sudden collapse, a sour smell or black stems warrant immediate inspection of the roots.
Can pests and watering problems happen together?
Yes. Weak plants attract pests, and pests damage leaves in ways that look like watering stress. Treat the cause you can confirm first and recheck after a week.
Does this work for outdoor plants?
The tree is written for indoor houseplants. Outdoor plants face wind, rain, frost and a wider range of insects, so the same symptoms can have different causes.