Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Examine the underside of the leaves for pests.
- Check if the soil is staying soggy for too long after watering.
- Look for signs of poor air circulation around the plant.
Likely causes
Fungal Leaf Spot
Most likelyHow to tell: Small, circular brown or black spots appear on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo around them.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to prevent the fungus from spreading. Water only at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.
Overwatering
PossibleHow to tell: The spots are accompanied by soft, mushy stems or a general yellowing of the foliage.
What to do: Reduce your watering frequency and ensure the soil is not sitting in standing water. Check that your pot has adequate drainage holes.
Find out what's wrong with your creeping speedwell
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
Worry if the spots are spreading quickly or if the plant begins to collapse. A single spot on an old leaf is usually nothing to be concerned about.
Stopping it coming back
Water at the soil level rather than overhead and ensure the plant has good airflow.
Creeping speedwell: spots? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your creeping speedwell and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
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Questions people ask
- Can I use a fungicide?
- You can use a mild, organic fungicide if the spots continue to spread. However, fixing your watering habits is usually more effective.
- Are these spots contagious to other plants?
- Yes, fungal spores can travel through the air or water splashes. It is best to isolate the affected plant until it recovers.
Guides to these causes
More problems with creeping speedwell
Back to the creeping speedwell guide
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.