Why is My Prayer Plant Droopy? 5 Common Causes and How to Fix Them

Prayer plants, also known as Maranta leuconeura, are beautiful tropical houseplants known for their brightly colored leaves and unique ability to raise and lower their leaves at night as if in prayer. However, these plants can sometimes start looking droopy and sad, which is concerning for any plant owner.

So why is my prayer plant droopy and how can I fix it? There are 5 main reasons prayer plants can become droopy

1. Low Humidity

Prayer plants thrive in humid conditions, similar to the tropical rainforests where they originate If the humidity levels are too low, usually below 50%, the leaves can start to droop as the plant struggles to get enough moisture in the air.

To increase humidity, you can mist the plant daily, use a pebble tray, or get a humidifier. Keep the plant in naturally humid rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.

2. Underwatering

Prayer plants need consistently moist soil. If the soil dries out too much between waterings, the leaves will start to droop and wilt. Check the top inch of soil with your finger – if it’s dry, it’s time to water. Water thoroughly until water drains out the bottom, then dump out excess water.

3. Overwatering

Too much water can damage the roots leading to drooping leaves. Check soil moisture before watering – if soil is soggy, hold off on watering. Allow the soil to dry out somewhat before watering again. Repot in fresh, dry soil if roots are rotten.

4. Excessive Sunlight

Direct hot sunlight can scorch the leaves causing them to wilt and fade. Place the prayer plant in bright, indirect light avoiding more than 2-3 hours of direct sun. Filter sunlight with a sheer curtain if needed.

5. Hard Water

Tap water and well water high in minerals can build up in the soil and damage the roots. Use rainwater, distilled water or leave tap water out overnight before using.

How to Bring a Droopy Prayer Plant Back to Life

• First, figure out the cause – check soil moisture, sunlight, humidity, and water quality. Oftentimes droopiness is due to a combination of factors.

• Increase humidity – use a humidifier, pebble tray, daily misting. Keep plant in bathrooms or kitchens.

• Adjust watering based on soil dryness. Water thoroughly when top inch is dry.

• Move plant away from direct sunlight, filter light if needed.

• Prune off any rotten roots, repot in fresh soil if root rot is present.

• Switch to using rainwater, distilled water or leaving tap water out before using.

• Remove any dead or dying leaves to encourage new growth.

• Fertilize lightly in the growing season to provide nutrients.

With some detective work and adjusting care, your prayer plant can bounce back beautifully. Pay close attention to humidity, soil moisture, sunlight, and water quality to keep your prayer plant happy and healthy. Consistent care tailored to your specific environment will prevent future droopiness.